Faegre Drinker Holds Steadfast in London Growth, Brings on Financial Services Regulatory Partner Steven Francis

Faegre Drinker is pleased to announce that Steven Francis has joined the firm as a partner in London. Francis joins from a global law firm where he was a partner in its financial regulation group. 

The addition of Francis follows on the heels of business litigation partner Jeremy Andrews, who joined at the beginning of the year, and investment management partner Michelle Moran and counsel Rupert Barnes in 2024, as well as the firm’s expansion to 8 Bishopsgate, located in the heart of London’s financial district.

“Steven is exactly the kind of lawyer clients in the financial services industry look for when faced with complex matters: knowledgeable and highly commercial, with a proven track record of success,” said London office leader Alex Denny. “His arrival marks yet another exciting development for our London office.”

Francis is a seasoned financial services regulatory lawyer, with a broad skillset in advisory and contentious matters. He regularly represents clients before the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Bank of England’s Prudential Regulation Authority. His work also brings him against authorities in the U.S. and Europe. Francis advocates for insurance firms, asset managers, e-money and payments firms, and other financial institutions in regulatory compliance issues and white-collar enforcement actions. Francis was formerly a team leader in the FCA’s Enforcement Division.

“Steven’s experience in representing clients before major regulatory institutions like the FCA is a great win for our team and draw for clients,” said insurance group leader Stephen Serfass. “We are excited to welcome him to our market-leading team.” 

Francis received his Bachelor of Laws, with honors, from the University of Bristol and received his Vocational Bar Qualification from Lincoln’s Inn, where he qualified first in his call year.