Browne Jacobson appoints Chris Holder as corporate partner specialising in AI and life sciences

Browne Jacobson has appointed Chris Holder as Partner to support its growing technology and life sciences practices.  

Chris is an experienced commercial IT lawyer who joins the UK and Ireland law firm’s London-based commercial team – which is spearheading its growth in both the City and internationally – from Bristows, where he led on IT and digital projects. 

He comes with a formidable reputation, having been one of the UK’s first specialist IT outsourcing lawyers, and one of the first to recognise the significance of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics for the future development of technology and the law. 

Chris has worked in the IT sector since qualification in 1991. He has worked with the European Commission on its early work relating to civil liability for autonomous IT systems and vehicles, as well as the European Robotics Forum and the UK Government’s AI Council on regulatory development issues. 

He is a regular speaker on AI and digital transformation and was recently Co-Chair of the Technology Committee of the International Bar Association (IBA), creating and organising its flagship AI Day at one of its annual global conferences. 

Chris said: “I’m thrilled to be joining Browne Jacobson at such a pivotal moment in the firm’s growth journey. The firm’s unique proposition – combining deep-rooted expertise in both the public and private sectors – creates a truly compelling platform for clients working at the forefront of society’s biggest issues.  

“Browne Jacobson’s longstanding relationships within public and independent healthcare, as well as universities that are home to some of the brightest minds pushing positive change, mean we are exceptionally well placed to support innovation and transformation across the life sciences sector.  

“I’m excited to contribute to this dynamic team, while helping our clients navigate the opportunities and challenges presented by the rapid evolution of AI and life sciences.” 

Chris sits in Browne Jacobson’s commercial team and supports its technology and life sciences practices. These feature multidisciplinary teams of legal experts supporting public and private sector clients with the complex legal landscape surrounding the integration of emerging technologies. 

The firm’s life sciences offering harnesses its long history of advising public and independent healthcare providers. It supports organisations delivering products and services including medical devices, diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, digital health and laboratory hardware. 

Anthony Nagle, Partner and Head of Browne Jacobson’s UK and Ireland Digital and Sourcing team, said: “Chris is a fantastic addition who brings a vast amount of experience and knowledge in regulatory issues around technologies such as AI and robotics at a time when these are being rapidly integrated into business operations. His expertise in advising on high-value, complex transactions in the technology and life sciences sectors will be a tremendous asset as we continue to grow our practice in the UK, Ireland and beyond.  

“Chris’s collaborative approach and deep sector knowledge will help us deliver even greater value to our clients, and reinforce our position as a leading adviser in these specialist areas.” 

Gerard Hanratty, Partner and Head of Health and Life Sciences, added: “Chris’ wealth of experience in AI and life sciences, together with his understanding of the complex interplay between public and private sector organisations, will be invaluable to our clients. His arrival further strengthens our ability to deliver innovative, practical solutions to those operating at the cutting edge of healthcare and technology.”