Hogan Lovells has named London-based Stephen Allen as Head of Innovation & Digital. He will be responsible for devising and implementing the firm’s innovation solutions relating to data science, artificial intelligence, machine learning, legal technology and digital productisation.
Stephen joined the firm in 2016 as Global Head of Legal Operations, and today manages more than 100 people comprising Legal Project Management, Data Analysts, Alternative Delivery Solutions, Review Attorneys and Paralegals.
Stephen, who in September 2019 was named Legal Intrapreneur of the Year by The Financial Times Innovative Lawyers Europe Awards, said: “I am really looking forward to being able to work with Mark Brennan, Lead Innovation Partner, to support driving the innovation agenda at Hogan Lovells and for our clients. Over the past three years we have spent a lot of time getting the architecture for innovation right. Mark’s appointment and my focus on innovation will ensure that the firm is constantly evaluating how we deliver differentiated services to our clients and will facilitate adoption of technologies that support our colleagues’ and clients’ needs.”
One major initiative devised by Stephen as he moves into his new role is the firm’s Artificial Intelligence-based LIBOR solution, which combats the significant legal, administrative and cost challenges of dealing with LIBOR re-papering for financial services clients. Stephen works together with the firm’s global Head of Financial Institutions, Sharon Lewis, and the Hogan Lovells Legal Delivery Centre in Birmingham to deliver this integrated solution that combines contract review and automated contract assembly technologies with focused legal review and advice to financial institutions seeking to address the phase out of LIBOR.
Stephen also co-founded the Bionic Lawyer Project, which aims to address problems facing the profession, from bias and privilege to an overreliance on email.
Stephen’s appointment follows that of Washington D.C.-based privacy and communications partner Mark W. Brennan who took on the role of Lead Innovation Partner earlier this year. Mark is responsible for championing innovation throughout the firm and embedding it into the firm’s culture and client services.
Mark W. Brennan said: “The legal profession sees clients increasingly look for lawyers – and their business services counterparts – who provide innovative, practical solutions and enhance their work. As we support our clients, it is important that we recognize innovation in all of its forms. I’m delighted to work alongside Stephen as we explore opportunities to further drive the innovation agenda”.
