Harrison Drury bolsters intellectual property offering

Independent Northern law firm Harrison Drury has appointed Asima Rana as partner in its Manchester commercial team as it continues to expand its specialist intellectual property expertise.

Asima joins from DWF, where she was a director, and has previously held senior positions at Addleshaw Goddard and TLT. 

She brings extensive experience advising businesses on contentious intellectual property matters, brand protection strategies and complex commercial disputes.

In her new role, she will lead the development of Harrison Drury’s intellectual property offering, supporting clients nationwide on issues ranging from brand enforcement to commercially sensitive disputes.

Asima’s sector expertise includes retail, fashion, consumer goods, food and drink, where she has acted for a range of high-profile brands on strategic enforcement programmes and reputational matters.

She said: “Harrison Drury is a firm with big ambitions and a genuinely collaborative culture. 

“The opportunity to grow the firm’s intellectual property offering is a natural fit with my experience and I’m delighted to be joining at such an important phase of its journey.

“My practice focuses on advising clients on complex intellectual property disputes and brand protection, where I work closely with clients to deliver practical, commercially focussed advice, and build strong, long-term relationships.  

“I’m looking forward to working with colleagues across the firm to strengthen our service across the region and support clients in managing disputes and protecting their intellectual property rights.”  

Asima’s appointment reflects growing demand for specialist intellectual property advice as businesses navigate increasingly complex challenges around innovation, product development and brand protection.

Harrison Drury is currently marking its 125th anniversary, with a programme of celebrations taking place throughout the year.

Rory O’Hare, partner and head of Harrison Drury’s commercial team, added: “There is always strong demand from businesses looking for support to both protect and commercialise their intellectual property. 

“Asima’s arrival improves our capability to protect our clients’ interests and complements our existing commercial expertise.

“She is one of the most respected intellectual property lawyers on the market and shares our commitment to building lasting relationships with clients to help them navigate complex disputes and manage commercial risk. 

“Her track record speaks for itself, and we are delighted to welcome her to the team.”

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