Expertise

  • Acquisitions
  • Disposals
  • Joint ventures
  • Investment

Related Sectors

Career & Experience

Duncan is a Partner in the corporate team advising on M&A, investments, JVs and delivering exit and/or succession plans including by way of management buy-out. Duncan has particular experience of deals in the Energy and Developer sectors.  He regularly acts on transactions with an international element, in particular with European, US and Canadian counter-parties.

Duncan is driven by building long term relationships with clients to help them achieve their ultimate aspirations, frequently working with other advisers to create the client’s desired transaction. His collaborative approach  ensures the best deal for the client is delivered in a cost effective way within the appropriate timescale.

Outside of the office Duncan is Chairman of Exeter Racecourse and when not spending time with his family enjoys playing golf and cricket.

Accolades

  • Ranked as a leader in his field in both Chambers and Legal 500

Career & Experience

Duncan is a Partner in the corporate team advising on M&A, investments, JVs and delivering exit and/or succession plans including by way of management buy-out. Duncan has particular experience of deals in the Energy and Developer sectors.  He regularly acts on transactions with an international element, in particular with European, US and Canadian counter-parties.

Duncan is driven by building long term relationships with clients to help them achieve their ultimate aspirations, frequently working with other advisers to create the client’s desired transaction. His collaborative approach  ensures the best deal for the client is delivered in a cost effective way within the appropriate timescale.

Outside of the office Duncan is Chairman of Exeter Racecourse and when not spending time with his family enjoys playing golf and cricket.

Accolades

  • Ranked as a leader in his field in both Chambers and Legal 500

Testimonials

Don't just take our word for it

Duncan is approachable and responsive and always interested in what we are up to.

Chambers & Partners, 2026

Duncan Sykes is the ultimate example of not only being an excellent lawyer, but in a very approachable and down-to-earth style that he undertakes the work in.

Legal 500, 2026

“Duncan is able to anticipate commercial issues and provide well-rounded advice as a result.”

Chambers and Partners UK, 2025

“Duncan Sykes is very approachable and always looking to get things done.”

Chambers and Partners UK, 2025

“Duncan is a very reassuring head in tense negotiations.”

Chambers and Partners UK, 2025

Duncan has a very approachable style and attitude. He was able to give me advice that on occasions I didn’t want to hear. He is practical and explained issues to me in language that I could understand. He leads a very strong team from the front and instils in the team his positive, can-do attitude.

Chambers & Partners, 2024

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