PRESS RELEASE – HGF strengthens Life Science team with two new Partners in Basel and Bristol

HGF has strengthened its European Life Sciences practice with the appointment of two experienced Partners, Frédéric Didelon in Basel and Fergus Manford in Bristol, who join the firm on 1 July 2026.

The appointments reflect HGF’s continued investment in its European Life Sciences practice, following a series of senior lateral hires since 2024.

Frédéric Didelon – Partner, Basel (1 July 2026)

Frédéric joins HGF’s Life Sciences Group as a Partner based in Basel, bringing experience from Novartis and formerly the EPO, further strengthening the firm’s presence in one of Europe’s leading life sciences hubs and enhancing its ability to support clients across continental Europe.

Frédéric commented:

“I’m delighted to be joining HGF at such a dynamic time of expansion for the firm. HGF´s strong reputation in patents and life sciences, combined with its international reach, makes it an outstanding place to support innovation.

I am particularly looking forward to advising clients on strategic IP matters in the biopharmaceutical and biotech sectors,  from early-stage counselling, to post-marketing IP management. I also look forward to contributing with colleagues in growing HGF’s presence in Basel and beyond, helping clients capture the strategic value of their technologies.”

Fergus Manford – Partner, Bristol (1 July 2026)

Fergus joins HGF’s Life Sciences Group as a Partner in Bristol, bringing over two decades of in-house IP experience within biotech start-ups.

Fergus has extensive experience developing IP strategies, managing global patent portfolios, and acting in EPO proceedings, including complex opposition cases with parallel litigation.

Fergus commented:

 “I am delighted and feel privileged to be joining HGF at such an exciting stage in its continued growth. HGF has earned a reputation as one of Europe’s leading intellectual property practices, recognised for its commitment to delivering outstanding client service.

I am looking forward to working alongside world-class colleagues to help our clients develop, protect and maximise the value of their innovative technologies.”

Kate Taylor, Head of HGF’s Life Science Group, added:
“We are delighted that Frédéric and Fergus are joining the team. They each bring a wealth of experience and a different perspective that will strengthen our Life Sciences practice and benefit our clients.

 Frédéric’s experience and network in Basel reinforce our presence in one of Europe’s leading life sciences centres, while Fergus’s years working in-house give him first-hand insight into the commercial challenges our clients face. Together they add further breadth and depth to our Life Sciences team and the advice we provide to clients across Europe.

For further comment please contact Nikki Butler at +44 (0)113 233 0100, nbutler@hgf.com.