New partner drives further growth and success in our London insurance team

Eileen Pathiraja has been appointed as partner to lead on construction risks in the London insurance disputes service.

Eileen joins from Beale & Co., bringing extensive experience and a proven track record in the construction insurance sub-sector.

Construction risks is a crucial part of the insurance disputes service, with approximately half of this work led from London. This involves professional indemnity defence for contractors and construction professionals and their insurers, as well as advising insurers on coverage issues.

After 36 years, 17 at Mills & Reeve, Nik Oldham, who presently heads up the construction insurance disputes team in London, is set to retire at the end of May 2025. Eileen has been appointed to take over that lead and focus on new growth opportunities, including maximising existing insurer relationships, working together with the construction and engineering team to develop insured relationships, and targeting new commercial clients.

Eileen has over 18 years of construction experience, handling a broad range of high value claims against construction professionals, acting for architects, engineers, and contractors arising out of projects based both at a domestic level and internationally. She also advises insurers on complex coverage issues. Her expertise aligns perfectly with the firm’s sector approach and broader targets.

Nik commented: “The construction sector is currently experiencing a high volume of claims, and our London team is mirroring this growth. Appointing Eileen as the head of the team offers significant opportunities to enhance our expertise and sustain growth, both in London and across our national service line, which is represented in five of Mills & Reeve’s offices.”

Eileen said: “With the sector’s dynamic growth and the firm’s strong reputation, I look forward to building on existing relationships and exploring new opportunities to drive success for Mills & Reeve’s clients.”