UK firm sets out international integration as key 2011-12 strategy

Olswang has applied for a licence to open in Singapore as the firm heralds international integration as one of its key themes for 2011-12.

The firm applied for a Singapore licence last month with a view to launching later this year, with the new base set to focus on commercial, corporate and international arbitration work.

The firm is also taking steps to increase integration across its international network, with new initiatives including the introduction of international budgets for its practice groups, in a move away from the firm's current system of individual office practice budgets.

The moves follow the hire of marketing consultant and International Marketing Partners founder Allyson Stewart-Allen, who has conducted a review of the firm's international offices and provided a report on how the firm can be better integrated. Stewart-Allen reported back to the firm's board last week.

Olswang chief executive David Stewart (pictured) said: "Olswang is committed to integrating its growing international network differently. With over 20% of this year's revenues coming from outside the UK and with cross-border deals and disputes on the increase, we know that the integration investment will pay back quickly and help our clients.

"Over 40 of our current clients have their Asian headquarters in Singapore, so it is a strong priority to build a corporate-orientated technology, media and telecoms base in the region. It would be an exciting platform for development, not just for a practice in Singapore, but for all of Asia, including Malaysia, Taiwan and South Korea, as well as acting as a platform for our India practice."

The firm is also looking to introduce a 'buddy' system that would see all of its lawyers based outside of London paired up with a City lawyer for support.