Eversheds Sutherland has welcomed back retail finance lawyer, Joanne Owens, who joins as a Partner from magic circle law firm, Allen & Overy.

Joanne advises a variety of clients across an array of key areas including retail banking, consumer finance services, payment services and e-money. Her particular focus is on the UK Consumer Credit Act 1974.

In addition, Joanne provides advice on all forms of unsecured credit products as well as on the FCA authorisation regime. This includes in relation to authorisations, exemptions and conduct of business requirements as well as on all matters relating to the UK consumer credit and unfair terms regime.

Prior to joining Allen & Overy as lead of its consumer credit practice, Joanne was a Principal Associate at Eversheds Sutherland.

Joanne enjoys a strong reputation for her regulatory expertise, described by legal industry directory, Legal 500 as “…an expert on retail financial services regulation.”

Naomi Seward, Head of Retail Finance, Eversheds Sutherland, said:

“We’re thrilled to welcome Joanne back to the team, whose arrival perfectly augments our existing capability. With the notable regulatory change in the ‘buy now pay later’ space, along with the new consumer duty, Joanne’s significantly sought after skill-set and experience within consumer credit and retail financial services will set us apart from the competition, proactively meeting the specific technical needs of our increasing client base.”

Joanne Owens, Partner, Retail Finance, Eversheds Sutherland, said:

“It’s wonderful to be back with Naomi and the team at Eversheds Sutherland. Having worked previously at the firm, I have the advantage of already knowing many of the clients and understanding their specific needs. I’m really looking forward to capitalising on this and working closely with the team to build on its wonderful reputation within this very competitive space.”