Global law firms and legal tech vendors have witnessed a significant reshuffling of key positions, marking strategic advancements in technology and client service delivery.
Hogan Lovells, a prominent global law firm, has announced the appointment of Paul Gilford as its new global Chief Information Officer (CIO), effective January 26, 2026. Gilford, based in London, will succeed Gareth Ash, who is set to retire in February after nearly nine years with the firm. Gilford brings a wealth of experience from his previous senior roles at DLA Piper, Azets, and McKinsey, where he led technology transformation initiatives. In his new role, he will collaborate closely with Mark Brennan, Hogan Lovells’ global managing partner for digitalization, and Sebastian Lach, co-CEO of ELTEMATE, the firm’s joint legal tech venture. His primary responsibilities will include advancing the firm’s AI strategy and steering the transition to a fully cloud-based environment.
CEO Miguel Zaldivar expressed his enthusiasm for Gilford’s appointment, stating, “Paul brings a tremendous depth of experience from leading technology transformations across major global organizations, and I am delighted that he will be joining us. His leadership will be instrumental in further modernizing our global technology platform, advancing our AI strategy, and delivering innovative technology solutions to our clients.”
Meanwhile, Skadden, a US-based law firm giant, has welcomed Vince DiMascio as its Chief Digital and Information Officer. DiMascio, who joined the firm this month and is based in New York, will oversee Skadden’s global digital and technology agenda, focusing on unifying enterprise systems, IT operations, cybersecurity, data analytics, and the integration of AI and emerging technologies. DiMascio’s previous experience includes roles at PwC and Berry Appleman & Leiden. Jeremy London, Skadden’s executive partner, highlighted the importance of DiMascio’s role in keeping the firm at the forefront of AI, data, and analytics.
In the legal tech sector, GenAI vendor Harvey has announced the appointment of Jorge Bestard as Vice President of EMEA Sales, alongside plans to open a new office in Paris in the second quarter. Bestard, who joins from Canva and has held leadership roles at Miro and Meta, will be based at Harvey’s EMEA headquarters in London but will manage teams across the region. Harvey CEO Winston Weinberg commented on the expansion, emphasizing the company’s commitment to supporting top legal teams across Europe.
Similarly, Luminance has made a strategic hire with Jonty Koekemoer joining as VP to lead its new regional hub in South Africa. Koekemoer, who brings over 13 years of corporate experience in Africa, will focus on expanding Luminance’s footprint across the continent. This move comes in response to a 66% increase in subscription customers in South Africa over the past year. Sascha Graham, VP of Legal at Purple Group, praised Luminance’s role in enhancing efficiency and decision-making within the legal team.
Definely, a UK-based AI-powered contract review and drafting company, has promoted Sigurjón (Sjonni) Ísaksson to Chief Technology Officer. Ísaksson’s appointment follows a successful year for Definely, marked by a $30 million Series B funding round and expansion into North America. As CTO, Ísaksson will continue to drive AI innovation and unify Definely’s product stack.
Lastly, Arbor Law, a specialist legal services firm, has appointed Simon Marshall as fractional Chief Marketing Officer for a six-month engagement. Marshall will conduct an audit of marketing, business development, and operational processes, collaborating closely with partners to refine Arbor Law’s business plan and enhance growth.
Kate Bennett, a partner at Arbor Law, expressed excitement about the firm’s growth plans, emphasizing the importance of strategic marketing in positioning the firm for success.
Note: This article is inspired by content from https://legaltechnology.com/2026/01/16/movers-and-shakers-big-hires-and-arrivals-for-hogan-lovells-skadden-harvey-definely-luminance-arbor-law/. It has been rephrased for originality. Images are credited to the original source.