Berwin Leighton Paisner (BLP) has hired high-profile M&A rainmaker Alan Paul from Allen & Overy (A&O), following the announcement of his retirement from the magic circle firm at the close of last year.

Paul (pictured) will join BLP next month as a senior consultant after 27 years as a partner at A&O. He has advised on more than 120 UK public takeovers throughout his career and is also well-known for his private equity work.