On 27 November 2025, international law firm Spencer West officially launched its South Africa office with a high profile evening event in Sandton, bringing together partners, clients and senior leaders from across the firm’s global network.
The launch marks another significant milestone for the rapidly expanding firm, which now boasts 360 Partners across 24 jurisdictions.
Opening the event, Founding Partner of Spencer West South Africa, Sanusha Govender, reflected on the momentum behind the new office and the culture that continues to guide the firm’s global trajectory.
“Spencer West offers a different way to practice law and that is why I chose to build this office,” Govender said.
“Collaboration underpins the way we work. Spencer West colleagues came from around the world to be here because this is who we are as a firm. We show up, we support one another and we build together.”
Guests were also welcomed by Alan Mukoki, CEO of the South African Chamber of Commerce, who emphasised the importance of the firm’s arrival in the South African market. He expressed confidence that Spencer West’s presence would contribute to greater economic opportunity and support the development of the wider business community.
Reflecting on the firm’s growth and the strategic importance of the South Africa launch, Spencer West Global Co-Founder and Managing Partner Antoine West noted the alignment between the South African legal landscape and the firm’s values driven model.
“We believe in our values driven model that gives Partners ownership of their work and support from an international community. The demand for autonomy, flexibility and independence is rising. This aligns with how we operate,” West said.
A key feature of the evening was a panel discussion titled Death, Taxes, and Cross Border Drama: A Roast of Global Wealth Planning. The panel brought together Spencer West Partners Liesl Kruger (South Africa), Hilesh Chavda (United Kingdom), Michael Derus (Germany) and Antish Maroam (Mauritius). The conversation explored current developments in international wealth planning, increasing regulatory complexity and emerging trends affecting clients with cross border interests.
The launch of the South Africa office forms part of Spencer West’s broader global strategy. The firm plans to expand locally with senior level appointments and strengthen its collaboration with its Kenya, Rwanda and Mauritius offices. As the firm deepens its presence on the continent, the South Africa practice is set to become a central hub for its African growth.
