Eversheds Sutherland strengthens international construction offering with strategic partner hires

Eversheds Sutherland is pleased to announce the appointment of two new partners to its  Construction team, further advancing the firm’s strategic growth and internationalisation plans.

James Holden joins from White & Case, where he was a Partner in the firm’s International Arbitration practice. James originally qualified at Eversheds Sutherland and returns after more than a decade at US firms, bringing with him a wealth of experience in international construction disputes and arbitration. His practice spans high-value infrastructure and energy projects. 

James has acted as lead counsel in some of the most complex and high-stakes arbitrations globally. He is known for his strategic leadership, cross-border collaboration, and ability to manage high-performing teams across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. James also brings a strong track record in mentoring and talent development, having led associate training and mentoring programmes across London.

John Lurie joins from Bechtel Corporation, where he served as Principal Counsel and Regional Head of Legal for EMEA. With over two decades of experience across private practice and in-house roles - including at Dorsey & Whitney, Dechert, and Norton Rose Fulbright - John brings deep expertise in transactional infrastructure and energy projects. His work has supported some of the world’s most complex developments across oil and gas, renewables, transport, and nuclear sectors, with strong ties to clients and projects in the Middle East.

John’s experience spans the structuring, negotiation, and delivery of EPC contracts for mega-projects. His skill set includes deep knowledge of FIDIC and bespoke contract forms, risk management, project finance, and dispute resolution through ICC, LCIA, and UNCITRAL arbitration. John is also a published thought leader in construction law and has been a long-standing tutor at King’s College London’s postgraduate programme in Construction Law and Dispute Resolution.

Both partners will join Eversheds Sutherland’s Construction team as part of a broader strategy to expand the firm’s international capabilities and deliver integrated, cross-border solutions to clients operating in global markets.

Jonathan Douglas, Head of Construction and Engineering at Eversheds Sutherland, commented:

"We are delighted to welcome James and John to the team. James’s return to Eversheds Sutherland is a homecoming of sorts, and his exceptional track record in international arbitration—particularly across Africa and the Middle East—will significantly enhance our disputes offering. John’s arrival brings a rare combination of transactional depth and sectoral breadth, and his experience across energy and infrastructure projects globally will be instrumental as we continue to grow our international footprint. These appointments mark a pivotal moment in the evolution of our Construction practice."

Mark Davenport, Global Co-Head of Litigation and Dispute Management at Eversheds Sutherland, added:

"James and John are outstanding additions to our global team. Their combined experience across disputes and transactional matters, and their deep understanding of international markets, will allow us to better serve our clients on their most complex and strategic mandates. Their appointments reflect our continued commitment to investing in top-tier talent and expanding our capabilities across key regions."

James Holden, Partner, Eversheds Sutherland, said:

"It’s a pleasure to return to Eversheds Sutherland at such an exciting time for the firm. I look forward to contributing to the growth of the Construction team and helping to build a truly global arbitration practice that delivers exceptional results for clients across Africa, the Middle East and beyond."

John Lurie, Partner, Eversheds Sutherland, said:

"Eversheds Sutherland’s platform, people and ambition make it the ideal place for me to assist in further developing the practice. I’m excited to work with colleagues across the UK and internationally to support clients on major energy and infrastructure projects, and to help drive the next phase of growth for the firm’s international construction offering."