Burness Paull appoints leading energy lawyer to head exploration and production team

Burness Paull has appointed energy expert Sarah Vass as a partner to lead the firm’s energy exploration and production (E&P) team.

Sarah brings extensive experience of the energy sector, having served most recently as general counsel for TotalEnergies E&P UK Limited. Over her time at TotalEnergies she led legal advice on international and cross-border M&A transactions in Europe, the Americas, the Middle East and Africa; oil & gas and renewables projects; disputes; supply chain; decommissioning; and successful landmark judicial review actions. 

Sarah will join Burness Paull’s specialist market-leading energy team who provide full-service support to clients across the globe, including advising on M&A, dispute resolution, real estate, regulatory support, compliance and employment. The team advise energy clients throughout the supply chain from traditional energy to renewables, with deep expertise in the offshore and marine sectors. 

The arrival of Sarah will enhance this offering, bringing additional expertise in strategic international projects and a strong industry perspective.

Mark Ellis, managing partner at Burness Paull, said: “We have had the pleasure of working with Sarah for many years and we are excited to welcome her to the firm. She is an exceptional lawyer with an outstanding track record and her extensive industry experience will be invaluable to our clients in the UK and internationally.  

“Global events continue to impact the energy sector and in a time of dynamic change, our clients need advisors with a deep understanding of the nuances of the market. Sarah’s arrival will enhance our already market-leading offering and bring a fresh perspective to help our clients navigate challenges wherever they are doing business.”

Sarah Vass added: “I have long admired the Burness Paull team and the respected position they hold in the market. Now more than ever clients across the energy sector need sound advice that is both commercially valuable and responsive to an ever-changing market. I’m looking forward to joining the firm and using my industry background to help deliver the excellent advice and service the firm is known for.”   

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