Womble Bond Dickinson hires Murray to lead subsidy control practice

Womble Bond Dickinson (WBD) has hired Dean Murray as a legal director in its Newcastle office to lead the firm’s subsidy control practice.

Murray, who joins from Ward Hadaway, has more than 20 years of experience advising a wide range of clients in the public, private and third sectors on state aid and subsidy control issues.

He will lead on advising public bodies, providing assistance to businesses (whether via grants, loans or other support measures) and advising the recipients of such assistance.

His appointment represents his return to WBD, having spent 15 years at legacy firms Dickinson Dees and Bond Dickinson.

“He also has extensive experience of EU and UK competition law, advising clients on contentious and non-contentious matters covering anti-trust issues, merger clearance and state aid,” WBD said.

“He has a strong track record advising public sector clients on procurement and outsourcing issues and has also acted for many businesses in the private sector including utilities, chemicals, fast moving consumer goods, logistics, motor vehicle manufacturing and education clients.”

Kevin Robertson, Head of WBD's Projects & Procurement team, said: "We're thrilled to welcome Dean back into the firm. Dean’s reputation and expertise, particularly in State aid and subsidy control issues, precedes him so we are delighted that he has chosen to re-join our business. His experience and specialisms will be of great benefit to our clients across the private and public sectors."

Murray said: "WBD has a strong reputation across the UK with an impressive client portfolio, particularly in the public sector arena, bringing many opportunities to work on very exciting national and regional projects. I am delighted to be re-joining our growing Newcastle team and to be reuniting with many former colleagues."