Lewis Silkin has advised its longstanding client Headland, the reputation and communications consultancy, on its acquisition of Shearwater, a Brussels-based political and regulatory advisory firm.
The acquisition will provide clients with a more extensive EU offer that spans reputation, communications, political and regulatory advisory, while giving Headland a presence in Brussels for the first time.
Shearwater advises blue-chip clients across the UK, EU, US and international markets, with particular strengths in global trade, competition and M&A, technology and AI, and environmental policy.
The Lewis Silkin team was led by Corporate Partner, Sadiq Tajbhai with support from Tax Partner, Matthew Rowbotham and Corporate Associates Jack Baldwin, Gabriella Jack and Liam Mayet.
This follows Headland's acquisition of London and New York-based digital strategy, brand and content consultancy Bladonmore, which Lewis Silkin advised on in 2025. Together, Headland, Bladonmore and Shearwater total more than 270 people with operations in London, Brussels, New York and Madrid.
Sadiq Tajbhai commented on the deal:
We are delighted to have supported Headland on this acquisition, which is a significant step in the growth of its advisory platform. Bringing Shearwater's EU political and regulatory capabilities into the fold broadens Headland's reach into Brussels and gives clients a genuinely integrated communications and advisory offering across the UK, Europe and US.
Jim Houghton, Chief Financial Officer of Headland has also commented:
The acquisition of Shearwater is an important milestone for Headland as we build out our international advisory offer. Sadiq and the team at Lewis Silkin provided excellent support throughout the process and we are grateful for their guidance in getting the deal across the line.