David is a partner in our Technology, Digital, Data and IP group. He is the firm’s Head of Intellectual Property and advises on IP protection, exploitation and enforcement, including a particular focus on franchising and sponsorship agreements. He also advises on strategic technology, telecoms and business process sourcing and on software licensing and development agreements, and is an active member of the firm’s Commercial Contracts advisory team.
Highlights include advising:
- Globally renowned retailers including Marks and Spencer, Asda and John Lewis in relation to a wide range of international business models including franchising, licensing and distribution arrangements across more than 50 countries
- A leading international payment processing company on the long-term provision of outsourced services underpinning the operation of a critical part of the UK’s payments infrastructure
- abrdn (formerly Standard Life Aberdeen) in connection with its corporate rebranding and the sale of the “Standard Life” brand to, and a range of IP licensing and technology and service arrangements in respect of its strategic partnership with, Phoenix Group.
- Luxury goods group Richemont on its joint venture with Alibaba for the development of an online luxury retail platform in China and its transformational global e-commerce partnership with FarFetch
David is recognised in leading legal directories for IT & Outsourcing and Intellectual Property.
“David provides the highest possible level of advice and client service, regardless of the complexity or value of the project." Chambers UK, 2025
"David Ives is solution-oriented and very responsive." Chambers UK, 2024