Withers has beefed up its intellectual property (IP) practice in the capital after scooping the head of non-contentious brands and rights from London rival Mishcon de Reya.

Conan Chitham is set to join private client specialist Withers next week (17 September) as a partner in the firm's IP team, which is headed by John Maycock.

Chitham, who joined Mishcons from Wragge & Co more than four years ago, advises clients across the fashion, design and technology industries. He will become the 67th partner in Withers' London head office.

Withers' three-partner London IP practice works closely with the firm's specialist brands and art teams and boasts a bluechip client base that includes Henkel, Samsung, Danone and Valentino.

The appointment of Chitham marks Withers' third lateral hire in the sector this summer following the hire of media and public law partner Jennifer McDermott, who joined the London office from Addleshaw Goddard, and art specialist Judith Bressler, who joined Withers' New York office earlier this month as of counsel.

Withers managing director Margaret Robertson told Legal Week: "Chitham gives us the strength and depth of practice in new media, personalities and celebrities."

Chitham added: "I had been with Mishcons for four-and-a-half years and the opportunity arose to join Withers. My clients are looking to do deals across jurisdictions including the US and Europe from London and Mishcons did not have that capability."

The news comes just a week after Mishcons hired a two-partner IP team from Pinsent Masons, as first reported by Legal Week (6 September). Martyn Hann and barrister Les Christy both join the firm this month along with assistant Mary Guinness.