Memery Crystal has hired a new partner to head up its intellectual property (IP) group, taking on Eversheds City IP chief John Hull.

Hull joined the City firm earlier this week (1 June) as head of the group, replacing David Hansel who left earlier this year to set up his own practice.

At Eversheds Hull was London head of IP and a member of the firm's national education group. The firm is currently in the process of replacing him.

Hull advises on IP litigation, including patent and trademark disputes, as well as non-contentious IP and IT matters including licensing, technology transfers and the registration and maintenance of trademark portfolios.

In addition, Hull has expertise in public law and judicial review, particularly relating to universities and higher education organisations. He has acted in over 20 judicial reviews covering issues such as plagiarism, fitness to practise, student admissions and expulsions.

Memery Crystal chief executive Lesley Gregory commented: "We are delighted that John is joining us. He is a highly-respected figure in the IP field and will make a tremendous contribution to shaping and growing our IP department and expanding our offering to clients."

In April Memery Crystal appointed corporate partner Gregory to the newly-created role of chief executive, as the City law firm phased out the managing partner position.

Gregory replaced managing partner Harvey Rands who has continued to head up the dispute resolution department, a role he had maintained in tandem with his managing partner responsibilities.