Eversheds has long enjoyed a close relation-ship with Leeds-based retailer Asda. But it nevertheless came as something of a surprise in January when news broke that the firm had enticed Asda’s head of legal Denise Jagger to head back into private practice after a two-decade absence.

But although Jagger is joining Eversheds as a partner, she will not be fee earning. Her primary role will be to use her in-house experience to advise Eversheds on how it can enhance its service to and relationships with its clients.