Chris Close
Partner
Additional role in firm
Head of the Services to Other Law Firms unit
About
With over 30 years experience Chris advises on all aspects of pensions work. He has particular expertise in take-overs, acquisitions and disposals (including TUPE), amending benefits, scheme mergers and legal aspects of funding issues.
Memberships and Qualifications
Membership of professional bodies: Association of Pension Lawyers (Full Member)
Career history
Pensions experience since: 1977
Joined Sackers: 1978
Joined partnership/LLP: 1987
Academic history
University / College
University of York (1973 – 1976)
University of London (1980 – 1984)
(external student while working)
Degree: BA Economic History and Politics; Law (LL.B. Hons)
Further Information
Testimonials:
Chris is highlighted for his practicality, with one source saying: "Nothing fazes him." Close specialises particularly in the impact of corporate transactions on schemes - Chambers UK 2012
Recommended - Legal 500 2011
"Chris was appointed as adviser to the Trustees of the Uponor Pension Scheme, quickly gaining the trust, confidence and respect of the trustees, applying his considerable knowledge and experience, and no nonsense approach, to great effect in securing an excellent result for the membership. On a personal note I have really enjoyed working with Chris and found his pragmatic approach to all things pension-related, and the fact that he is definitive in his advice, no sitting on the fence with Chris, both refreshing and enlightening. I am so glad he was on our team." - Robin Freeman; Chair of Trustees, Radius Systems Pension Scheme
“I honestly don’t think we would have got through this without you… It has never ceased to amaze me the hours that everyone has been available to us regardless of evenings, weekends, holidays and other work commitments… Thank you very much indeed.” - Christine Durrant, Chair of the Trustees of the Aquascutum Life Assurance and Pension Plan – August 2009
"(Chris) earns high praise for his "tremendous knowledge and understanding of our particular problems." He is also noted for his knowledge of the pensions aspects of takeovers, acquisitions and disposals, TUPE and scheme mergers." - Chambers UK 2010
Selected as a Legal Expert (highly recommended in Pensions) - Legal Experts 2009
Work examples - landmark matters:
Represented the employer in South West Trains V Wightman
Extracurricular interests and activities:
Walking, Cricket, Charlton Athletic FC
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