Ascensus newsletter: Winter 2025
Welcome to the winter edition of the Ascensus newsletter.
We're excited to share some new resources and opportunities designed to support you and your team.
This month, we're launching #DigitalFrontiers – our new podcast exploring the intersection of law, AI and emerging technology. Our first episode features Non-Executive Director Shirley Chowdry discussing a practical five-pillar framework for governing AI. We'd love to hear what you think.
We're also continuing our AI legal bytes sessions, with the next one taking place on 8 December at 12.30pm. These short, interactive sessions are designed specifically for in-house lawyers dealing with day-to-day AI governance issues – perfect for getting current, actionable insights without taking up too much of your time.
Additionally, you'll find below updates on the Employment Rights Bill, recent court decisions on sexual harassment liability, regulatory developments across higher education, manufacturing and retail sectors, plus information about our executive coaching programme delivered in collaboration with 10Eighty.
There's plenty to read during your next commute. Please do get in touch to share your thoughts, and we look forward to connecting with you soon.
#DigitalFrontiers podcast
We're thrilled to introduce #DigitalFrontiers – our new podcast exploring the intersection of law, AI and emerging technology through conversations with influential leaders. Each episode delivers expert insights and practical wisdom on navigating digital transformation.
Episode 1: Boardrooms, AI and better decisions
What if AI could challenge groupthink and sharpen your board's strategic thinking? In our first episode, Non-Executive Director Shirley Chowdry reveals a practical five-pillar framework for governing AI – transforming it from efficiency tool to thinking partner. Discover the governance essentials most organisations overlook and how to keep humans firmly in control whilst raising decision quality
AI legal bytes
Mondays (fortnightly), 12.30pm - 1pm, Online
AI regulation is a moving feast and one where there is more information, from more sources than most people could keep up with. In our fortnightly legal bytes series we cover the stories, regulation and cases that matter, whether that’s copyright infringement (and the Getty Images case), data protection issues from taking on an AI system (and the Clearview v ICO decision), cyber security or some of the contractual clauses that we’ve seen from AI providers – we’ll cover all that you need to know in 30 minutes.
Join your hosts Richard Nicholas and Saara Lieno along with co-hosts from across our business and legal teams at the next session on 8 December.
Spotlight on: Executive coaching
Leading an organisation brings a range of challenges – from navigating complex decisions to driving long-term growth. Executive coaching provides a valuable space to step back, reflect, and work through these challenges with clarity. Our executive coaching programme, delivered in collaboration with 10Eighty, offers tailored support for leaders at all stages of their careers.
Each session is practical and focused on what matters most to you – helping you to reflect, problem-solve, and plan ahead with confidence.
AI update
AI, data and security: Key insights for in-house lawyers and business leaders
Our recent Ascensus event brought together experts from across regulatory, compliance, cyber security and employment law to talk about the complex AI, data and security questions businesses are grappling with. Read the key takeaways.
Employment updates
Employment Rights Bill
Our Employment Rights Bill hub is now live. This is a one-stop shop brings together all our Employment Rights Bill content and events, making it easier for you to learn and engage with timely updates, clear expert analysis, real-world case studies and actionable strategies that help you prepare.
Court of Appeal clarification on Employment Tribunal jurisdiction rules
It has been a longstanding requirement that, save for in limited circumstances, prospective Employment Tribunal (ET) claimants must obtain an ACAS early conciliation. We take a look at a recent case that has drawn attention to one of the exceptions.
Government publishes Employment Rights Bill consultations
As the Bill nears finalisation, the government has published consultations on four areas in which new employee protections/employer obligations will be introduced by the Bill. We break down the consultations that are now live.
When does sexual harassment by an employee take place in the course of employment?
We review the Employment Appeal Tribunal decision in AB v Grafters Group Ltd as a reminder that employer liability for sexual harassment can extend beyond the physical workplace.
Sector updates
Higher education: Be connected newsletter, Autumn 2025
Our national team of legal experts deliver actionable insights for higher education leaders. Read the latest sector updates on legislation and regulatory developments, employment, plus guidance, workshops and support for higher education teams.
Manufacturing and industrials: Food for thought
The latest regulatory update from our specialist food and drink lawyers, featuring insights on less healthy food restrictions, high caffeine energy drinks, the Brexit reset and nutrition health claims.
Real estate and construction: The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 has received Royal Assent
We cover the key changes to be brought in by the Act to prepare landlords and letting agents which need to urgently review their practices and processes.
Retail and supply chain: Retail law roundup
Our latest roundup of legal updates for retailers and brands. We look into how the golden quarter marks a significant time in the UK economy and how retailers can prepare for recruiting temporary workers during the crucial trading period.
Contact
Richard Nicholas
Partner
richard.nicholas@brownejacobson.com
+44 (0)121 237 3992
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