James Longster

James Longster

Partner

James is a partner in our Technology & Commercial Transactions Department, specialising in technology, data protection and intellectual property.

Technology

James regularly advises on major IT implementations, IT outsourcings, software development and licensing issues.

He has significant experience in relation to technology acquisitions and implementations, software and system developments, and outsourcings (acting across a range of sectors including the financial services, retail, leisure and media sectors).

Data protection

James advises clients on privacy and confidentiality issues, including GDPR and Privacy Electronic Communication Regulation compliance. His practice particularly focuses on data breaches and the exploitation and monetisation of client data. 

Intellectual property

James advises on all areas on intellectual property, from creation, to exploitation and enforcement. He has significant experience on branding, copyright and database matters and also focuses on franchising, where he acts for both franchisors and franchisees on UK and global arrangements.

James is a member of the firm-wide Technology and Leisure Sector Groups.

James is a Certified Information Privacy Professional in Europe (CIPP/E). James is also a member of the industry-wide GDPR Working Group for the Alternative Investment Management Association, part of TechUK's Data Protection Group, and a member of iTechLaw and the Society for Computers and Law.

Co-head of Graduate Recruitment

As Co-head of Graduate Recruitment, James is responsible for finding the next generation of Travers Smith lawyers.

Work Highlights

  • Global enterprise software company, Micro Focus, on the technology, data and IP aspects of its US$ 8.8 billion acquisition of software business Hewlett Packard Enterprise and its US$ 2.5 billion disposal of SUSE, as well as ongoing data protection compliance matters.
  • Multinational life insurance and financial services company, Prudential, in respect of its GDPR compliance and ongoing data protection issues.
  • Argent Energy in connection with its implementation of an Oracle ERP system by Hitachi Consulting UK.
  • Caffè Nero on a number of IT arrangements including regarding its EPOS arrangement with 3C and a transformative arrangement with back office solution provider CrunchTime.
  • Pret A Manger on a number of IT implementations including regarding a cloud-based HR system.
  • A Bridgepoint investee company, Burger King UK, on the acquisition of the master franchise rights to the Burger King brand in the UK and the associated acquisition of over 70 Burger King restaurants.
  • STA Travel on its business-critical arrangements with CenturyLink for the worldwide provision of telephony and internet connectivity.
  • Micro Focus on an internal reorganisation of its EMEA IP and associated licensing arrangements.
  • Aptar on a business critical patent licensing and manufacturing arrangement with GlaxoSmithKline.

WHAT OTHERS SAY

Very accessible and goes out of his way to make himself available at short notice. He is very dependable and aware of commercial challenges.
The Legal 500 2020
James Longster is a young partner making his mark. Intelligent, pragmatic and responsive.
The Legal 500 2020
He's extremely commercial and responsive, very pragmatic and very smart.
Chambers 2022
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