Chris and Elliot were both a pleasure to work with. They handled the whole process from start to finish with care, patience, and delicacy, without which I would undoubtedly not have felt able to explore and ultimately seize the opportunity presented.

Charlie Lightfoot, Global Chair of International Arbitration, Cooley

Chris understands our growth strategy and has invested time and effort to better understand our firm and the business and specific needs of the practice sections that we want to focus on in respect of that strategy. As a consequence we view Chris as an integral part of our lateral partner hiring process.

Managing Partner, London Office, US Firm

A core objective of my role as Office Managing Partner of Locke Lord in London is expanding our offering. Partnering with a first rate recruiter is vital to achieving that objective. Chris Payne fits the bill in every respect. He comprehends our strategic goals. My dialogue with him is constant and irrespective of whether or not any candidates are under consideration. Once a suitable candidate is identified and introduced, Chris remains fully engaged throughout the process and works tirelessly and tenaciously to get the hire over the line. His monumental efforts have borne exceptional results for us over the past year alone. Above all, Chris is a really great guy and a pleasure to work with.

David Grant, London Office Managing Partner, Locke Lord

Chris placed me at my current firm and has since become my go-to partner recruiter when we are looking for candidates. He has fantastic industry knowledge, knows the market inside out and is very responsive and committed.

EMEA Head of Commercial Disputes Practice, White & Case

Chris delivered outstanding service as a Partner recruiter, surpassing expectations by thoroughly grasping my requirements and preferences for a cultural and business match. Notably impressive was Chris's authentic and extensive network, enabling him to arrange impactful meetings with all the firms I had targeted. Chris's efficiency in delivery and execution was remarkable, and his communication stood out for its direct, honest, and transparent nature. In summary, Chris demonstrated an exceptional level of professionalism and service and more importantly he was fun with a great sense of humour, and I wholeheartedly recommend him to others.

Hannah Field, London Head of Disputes, Shoosmiths

After nearly 24 years at the same firm, I decided it was time to explore options. However, I needed someone I could trust and who would guide me through the process. Chris fulfilled this role in spades. He helped me identify firms that should be approached using his personal knowledge of firms and my description of what was important to me to refine a list. He prepared me for initial and follow-up meetings with firms. He helped me through my business plan, supporting and giving me the faith in myself that can sometimes be missing as a result of a long time at a single firm. He was available morning, noon and night and my ultimate success in securing a role at a new firm that feels the perfect fit is in no small part down to his hard work, support and care. I genuinely believe I could not have done it without him. I would not hesitate to recommend him to my friends especially those, like me, who are looking to make one move in their career.

Barry Gross, Real Estate Partner, Simmons & Simmons