Eversheds has been appointed sole adviser to Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) for its international work.

The three-year appointment will see the firm advise the university as it pushes to develop internationally. It is thought Eversheds saw competition from rivals DLA Piper and Halliwells to secure the mandate.

Eversheds head of international education, Glynne Stanfield, will lead a team advising the university as it sets up joint ventures and commercial agreements with the private sector for overseas courses and campuses, as well as raising finance for the expansion.

Stanfield commented: "Universities are big business, with education being the third largest export market of the UK. LJMU is in the early days of its international policy but is looking to become a major player in a growing area."

The university has also re-appointed DWF to a three-year mandate as its sole legal adviser in the UK.

The northwest firm, which has acted for the institution for 12 years, will continue to provide advice on issues including property, planning, employment and health and safety law.

DWF head of education, Maria Burquest, led the firm's team on the pitch and is the main relationship partner. Before Eversheds' appointment DWF conducted all UK and international work for the university.