Reed Smith Appointed New Managing Partner for EME Region
The firm has tapped Jimmy Theodorou to lead its European and Middle Eastern operations, signaling a focus on continued regional growth.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in People
Reed Smith has appointed Jimmy Theodorou as its new Managing Partner for Europe and the Middle East. Theodorou, who formerly chaired the firm's Global Real Estate Group, assumed the role on October 1, 2026.
Why it matters
The transition comes as the firm looks to build upon its regional footprint and pursue new business opportunities. Theodorou will also serve on the firm's Senior Management Team, playing a direct role in shaping the firm's growth strategy in these markets.
The appointment marks a change in leadership following the three-year tenure of the previous manager, Gregor Pryor, who oversaw the firm since 2023.
The players
Jimmy Theodorou
The newly appointed Managing Partner for Europe and the Middle East who previously chaired the firm's Global Real Estate Group.
Reed Smith
An international law firm that manages a global legal practice and serves corporate clients across multiple industry sectors.
Gregor Pryor
The outgoing Managing Partner for Europe and the Middle East who previously led the firm's Global Entertainment and Media Industry Group.
The details
Jimmy Theodorou transitions to the Managing Partner role after leading the firm's Global Real Estate Group. He is expected to focus on scaling existing operations while identifying new client-service opportunities across the firm's Europe and Middle East network. The firm previously expanded its physical reach in the region by opening an office in Riyadh during the tenure of his predecessor.
Timeline
2023: Gregor Pryor began his tenure as EME Managing Partner.
October 1, 2026: Jimmy Theodorou assumed the EME Managing Partner role.
Market Landscape
The appointment signals a continuation of the firm's long-term regional development strategy. This follows a trend of expansion that included the firm's 2023 opening of its Riyadh office.
Operators should monitor whether the firm's shift in regional management leads to changes in service delivery or industry focus for existing accounts. Clients with projects in the Middle East and Europe should prepare for potential adjustments in account management and regional priorities.
The takeaway
The appointment of a former real estate group head suggests the firm may be prioritizing growth in property-related legal services. Partners and clients should track the firm's upcoming service offerings to identify new opportunities for collaboration.
Further reading
For more on firm leadership shifts and career developments, explore our section on People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Globallegalchronicle.
