John is a consultant in the private client team advising a broad range of corporate and private clients on both their business affairs and private interests, often building long-term relationships that span multiple jurisdictions. 

Many of John’s clients are international and rely on his expertise when acquiring and disposing of UK-based property assets. He also provides advice on the ongoing management, development and structuring of both commercial and residential property portfolios following acquisition. 

John has significant experience advising on commercial contracts and a broad range of business matters He is particularly recognised for his work in the art world, acting for galleries, institutions, dealers and private collectors on high-profile and complex matters over many years. 

His expertise spans ownership and provenance issues, negotiating contracts for major art transactions, advising on terms and conditions and related commercial matters, as well as restitution issues concerning Holocaust-era art. He has also advised a number of trade bodies, including the British Antique Dealers’ Association, and continues to support a range of charitable organisations.

For many years, John has also acted for the Independent Doctors Federation (IDF), the UK’s largest representative body for private independent doctors.

Alongside his legal practice, John has held several senior non-executive roles. He served for nearly nine years as Chair of the UK arm of one of the world’s largest insurance companies, listed on the German Stock Exchange, and was also a member of Lloyd’s of London. He continues to hold a number of non-executive directorships.

John joined Russell-Cooke in 2026.

• Member of the New York Bar Association.
• Member of the Commercial Law League of America.
• Member of the Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars.