National law firm Ashfords has appointed David Varney, a partner specialising in data and technology, to the commercial and intellectual property (IP) team in its Bristol office.
David, pictured, previously worked at law firms Allen & Overy, Morrison & Foerster and Burges Salmon in Bristol, where he gained significant expertise in data, IT, cybersecurity, AI and IP across sectors including technology, media, retail, energy, utilities and financial services. 
He advises clients on data protection and privacy issues in addition to the outsourcing and procurement of technology products and services.
Ashfords’ highly regarded technology and digital transformation team has longstanding experience working with innovative technology clients driving digital transformation in their industries.
Clients range from large and scaling businesses to entrepreneurs and investment funds in the UK and internationally.
It also supports a number of innovation hubs and tech communities in Bristol and the South West, including techSPaRK and SetSquared, while providing guidance and resources for growth businesses via its business scale-up hub.
Ashfords partner and head of commercial & IP Brian Farrell said: “We’re thrilled to welcome David to Ashfords to help further develop our established data protection offering and to complement our strong technology practice.
“David’s extensive expertise reinforces our commitment and capability to deliver for our clients as they grow nationally and internationally.”
David said he was delighted to be joining Ashfords, describing it as a firm with a market-leading reputation for innovation and technology.
“With my background in these areas, coupled with my experience of data and cybersecurity law, I look forward to collaborating with the firm’s exceptional team to help clients navigate the evolving landscape of digital, data and technology regulation and leverage AI and other emerging technologies effectively.”
Ashfords employs more than 500 people across its offices in Bristol, Exeter, London and Plymouth.
