Sullivan
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Biography

Geoff has extensive experience in banking and finance, specifically in corporate and international finance, trade, structured trade and commodity finance, electronic banking and digitizing trade finance, structured finance, asset and project finance, syndicated lending, equipment leasing, workouts and financing restructuring and general commercial matters.

Recognised as one of the leading trade finance lawyers globally, Geoff advises many of the major trade finance banks and financial institutions around the world on trade and commodity transactions in virtually every emerging market including in the CIS, Asia, India, Africa and Latin America. He has worked on many structured trade transactions covering such diverse commodities as oil, nickel, steel, tobacco, cocoa and coffee.

Geoff also acts extensively for industry bodies including BAFT (the Bankers Association for Finance & Trade), ITFA (the International Trade and Forfaiting Association) and the ICC (the International Chamber of Commerce) on documentation and rules promulgated by them in trade finance.

He has recently been involved with issues including the ITFA White Paper on electronic Payment Undertakings (ePUs), the ICC Uniform Rules for Digital Trade Transactions (URDTT) and ITFA’s Uniform Rules for Transferable Electronic Payment Obligations (URTEPO). He worked with the Law Commission on the Electronic Trade Documents Bill which will help with the move towards digitizing trade documents.

The team which Geoff leads has won numerous awards and recognition for its work in the Trade and Export Finance industry. In 2026, Sullivan was honored as "Best Law Firm – Trade and Commodities" at the inaugural Trade, Treasury & Payments (TTP) Awards. In 2023, Sullivan was named Best Export Finance Law Firm at the GTR’s Leaders in Trade Awards, 2023. This followed the award for ‘Best trade or supply chain finance law firm’ at the 2022 GTR Leaders in Trade Awards, and ‘Best Trade Finance Law Firm’ by Trade Finance Global (TFG) in its International Trade Awards, 2022.

Geoff is ranked in Chambers UK, 2026 as a ‘Star Individual’ – the only lawyer in the UK included in this new category – and is included in the ‘Hall of Fame’ for Trade Finance by The Legal 500 UK, 2026 and is recognised as a Leading Lawyer (Market Leader) in the United Kingdom by IFLR1000, 2025.

Education
  • The College of Law
  • Christ Church, Oxford University (B.A.)
    • Jurisprudence
Bar & Court Admissions
  • Solicitor, Senior Courts of England and Wales
Professional Qualifications
  • Solicitor, Senior Courts of England and Wales, 1975
Awards & Honors
  • Thomson Reuters "Stand-Out Lawyer" (2025-2026)
  • Lifetime Achievement Award, RFIX (2024)
  • Industry Ambassador of the Year, RFIx (2023)
  • Best Lawyers in the United Kingdom, Commodities (2009-2025)
  • Chambers UK, Commodities: Trade Finance (UK-wide) (2013-2026)
  • Chambers UK "Star Individual" (2026)
  • Recognised in the "Hall of Fame" by The Legal 500 UK (2018, 2020-2026)
  • Recognised as a "Leading Individual" by The Legal 500 UK (2014-2025)
  • IFLR1000, Highly-Regarded, Bank Lending: Lender Side (2017-2024), and Leading Lawyer (Market Leader) (2025)
  • Lexology "Client Choice" — Banking (2019, 2021)
  • Trade & Forfaiting Review Awards, Fellowship Award (2017)
Community Engagement
  • Trade Treasury Payments' Editorial Board, 2025
Additional Publications
  • Together with Deutsche Bank and ITFA, Sullivan recently published the 3rd Edition of "A Guide to Receivables Finance." Edited by Geoffrey, and fully updated together with a number of market-leading industry experts, the third edition examines the changes that have occurred in law and practice for all those who participate in receivables finance, including across digitalisation, fintech and regulation.
  • The 2nd Edition of “A Practitioner's Guide to Trade and Commodity Finance,” was published in 2021 by Sweet & Maxwell, part of Thomson Reuters. Edited by Geoffrey, the guide covers all aspects of trade and commodity finance, from pre-export and structured trade finance to the rise of supply chain finance as part of receivables finance. This latest edition was extensively updated by the team in London and expands the first edition to cover developments in law and practice.
Viewpoints
All Viewpoints
Late Payment Reform Proposals for SMEs
In a briefing note prepared for ITFA, Sullivan has highlighted the UK Government’s renewed push to address late payments through proposed reforms to the Late Payments Act. First introduced last year, the proposals would cap payment terms at 60 days for transactions involving small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The UK Government says it is aiming to improve cash flow and reduce pressure across supply chains, but which in reality many believe this may disadvantage UK SMEs. The reforms were confirmed in the King’s Speech to Parliament on 13 May, in line with the Government’s declared commitment to fairer payment practices and stronger support for SMEs. If implemented, the changes could significantly affect contractual arrangements, particularly in industries with complex supply chains. The firm’s briefing note outlines key elements of the proposals and their potentially significant impact on businesses, including the need to review payment processes, financing structures and supplier relationships. ITFA says it intends to continue lobbying the UK government to reconsider the details of the proposals. To read the full Sullivan briefing note on the proposed Late Payment Law Reforms or please contact Geoffrey Wynne for further information.
Trade Finance Guide 2026
Reflecting the firm’s involvement in all aspects of trade finance, partner Geoffrey Wynne has contributed to the updated “Trade Finance Guide 2026,” described as “the definitive reference for trade finance professionals” and published jointly by Trade Treasury Payments (TTP) and the International Trade and Forfaiting Association (ITFA). The guide provides a practical, practitioner-focused overview of modern trade finance markets, covering core structures, products and risk dynamics. It explains how trade finance underpins global commerce by bridging payment gaps between buyers and sellers while mitigating risk through instruments such as letters of credit, guarantees, receivables finance and supply chain finance. It also outlines the roles of importers, exporters and financiers, and the legal and documentary frameworks supporting transactions, with an emphasis on robust structuring to ensure enforceability and repayment. In addition, the guide addresses key risk mitigants, including credit enhancement, insurance and risk distribution, alongside common challenges such as fraud, operational complexity and cross-border legal issues. Reflecting market evolution, it highlights trends including digitalisation, standardisation and the growing participation of non-bank investors. It is designed as an accessible resource for both new and experienced professionals seeking a clearer understanding of trade finance and its role in supporting the real economy.  The guide can be accessed and downloaded here.
Sullivan & Worcester Named “Best Trade or Supply Chain Finance Law Firm” at GTR Leaders in Trade Awards 2026
London, 26 June 2026 – Sullivan & Worcester (Sullivan) is pleased to announce that it has been named “Best Trade or Supply Chain Finance Law Firm” at the Global Trade Review (GTR) Leaders in Trade Awards 2026. The award was presented at GTR’s annual awards dinner in London last night. This latest recognition continues an exceptional year for the firm’s market-leading Trade & Export Finance practice and follows its success earlier this year having been named “Best Law Firm – Trade and Commodities, 2026” at the inaugural Trade Treasury & Payments (TTP) Awards. Together, the two awards reinforce Sullivan’s position at the forefront of the international trade finance legal market. They highlight the continued strengthening of the firm’s trade and export finance practice, which has expanded significantly over the past year with the arrival of partners Robert Parson and Matthew Cox. Geoffrey Wynne, head of Sullivan’s Trade & Export Finance Group, said: “To receive two of the industry’s most prestigious legal awards in the same year is a tremendous endorsement of our strategy and our team. We have expanded our capabilities, attracted exceptional talent and continue to advise clients across the full spectrum of trade, commodity, supply chain and export finance, including advising DFIs on complex international transactions and helping clients to navigate the impact of the digitalisation of trade. This recognition reflects not only the expertise and commitment of our team, but also the trust and loyalty of our clients, whose support enables us to continue growing and innovating. It is encouraging to be recognised by the market in such a meaningful way.” The GTR Leaders in Trade Awards recognise excellence and innovation across the global trade, commodity, supply chain and export finance markets, honouring organisations that are shaping the future of international trade finance. This latest award also follows the recent announcement of the arrival at Sullivan of a leading Emerging Companies and Venture Capital team, led by partners James Shaw, Iain Cockburn and Ben Williams, significantly enhancing the firm's transatlantic capabilities and accelerating its strategic growth in London. Further details are available here. About Sullivan Sullivan & Worcester is a global law firm with approximately 200 attorneys in Boston, London, New York, Tel Aviv and Washington, D.C. Sullivan’s clients, including Fortune 500 companies, leading financial services firms and asset managers, boards of directors, and emerging businesses, rely on Sullivan’s ability to navigate complex legal and operational landscapes and its commitment to best‑in‑class client service. For further information please visit the firm’s website and LinkedIn. Contacts Geoffrey Wynne Partner, Sullivan & Worcester gwynne@sullivanlaw.com +44 (0)20 7448 1001 Will Hulbert PR, Hulbert & Co. will@hulbertandco.com +44 (0)7774 108 699
Sullivan Sponsors the 2026 ITFA Emerging Leader Award
Sullivan & Worcester is pleased to sponsor the 2026 International Trade and Forfaiting Association’s (ITFA) Emerging Leader Award. Entering the Emerging Leader Award 2026 is an excellent opportunity for up-and-coming Trade Financiers to showcase their talent, gain industry recognition and to stand out among their peers. As a proud sponsor, Sullivan is excited to support the next generation of leaders shaping the future of the trade finance and forfaiting industry. The final will take place at the ITFA Annual Conference in Split in September. Members of the Sullivan team will be there! Further information about the award, including how to apply, is accessible here and the LinkedIn page for the ITFA Young Professionals Network, here.

Geoffrey Wynne

Geoff has extensive experience in banking and finance, specifically in corporate and international finance, trade, structured trade and commodity finance, electronic banking and digitizing trade finance, structured finance, asset and project finance, syndicated lending, equipment leasing, workouts and financing restructuring and general commercial matters.

Recognised as one of the leading trade finance lawyers globally, Geoff advises many of the major trade finance banks and financial institutions around the world on trade and commodity transactions in virtually every emerging market including in the CIS, Asia, India, Africa and Latin America. He has worked on many structured trade transactions covering such diverse commodities as oil, nickel, steel, tobacco, cocoa and coffee.

Geoff also acts extensively for industry bodies including BAFT (the Bankers Association for Finance & Trade), ITFA (the International Trade and Forfaiting Association) and the ICC (the International Chamber of Commerce) on documentation and rules promulgated by them in trade finance.

He has recently been involved with issues including the ITFA White Paper on electronic Payment Undertakings (ePUs), the ICC Uniform Rules for Digital Trade Transactions (URDTT) and ITFA’s Uniform Rules for Transferable Electronic Payment Obligations (URTEPO). He worked with the Law Commission on the Electronic Trade Documents Bill which will help with the move towards digitizing trade documents.

The team which Geoff leads has won numerous awards and recognition for its work in the Trade and Export Finance industry. In 2026, Sullivan was honored as "Best Law Firm – Trade and Commodities" at the inaugural Trade, Treasury & Payments (TTP) Awards. In 2023, Sullivan was named Best Export Finance Law Firm at the GTR’s Leaders in Trade Awards, 2023. This followed the award for ‘Best trade or supply chain finance law firm’ at the 2022 GTR Leaders in Trade Awards, and ‘Best Trade Finance Law Firm’ by Trade Finance Global (TFG) in its International Trade Awards, 2022.

Geoff is ranked in Chambers UK, 2026 as a ‘Star Individual’ – the only lawyer in the UK included in this new category – and is included in the ‘Hall of Fame’ for Trade Finance by The Legal 500 UK, 2026 and is recognised as a Leading Lawyer (Market Leader) in the United Kingdom by IFLR1000, 2025.

Viewpoints
All Viewpoints
Late Payment Reform Proposals for SMEs
In a briefing note prepared for ITFA, Sullivan has highlighted the UK Government’s renewed push to address late payments through proposed reforms to the Late Payments Act. First introduced last year, the proposals would cap payment terms at 60 days for transactions involving small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The UK Government says it is aiming to improve cash flow and reduce pressure across supply chains, but which in reality many believe this may disadvantage UK SMEs. The reforms were confirmed in the King’s Speech to Parliament on 13 May, in line with the Government’s declared commitment to fairer payment practices and stronger support for SMEs. If implemented, the changes could significantly affect contractual arrangements, particularly in industries with complex supply chains. The firm’s briefing note outlines key elements of the proposals and their potentially significant impact on businesses, including the need to review payment processes, financing structures and supplier relationships. ITFA says it intends to continue lobbying the UK government to reconsider the details of the proposals. To read the full Sullivan briefing note on the proposed Late Payment Law Reforms or please contact Geoffrey Wynne for further information.
Trade Finance Guide 2026
Reflecting the firm’s involvement in all aspects of trade finance, partner Geoffrey Wynne has contributed to the updated “Trade Finance Guide 2026,” described as “the definitive reference for trade finance professionals” and published jointly by Trade Treasury Payments (TTP) and the International Trade and Forfaiting Association (ITFA). The guide provides a practical, practitioner-focused overview of modern trade finance markets, covering core structures, products and risk dynamics. It explains how trade finance underpins global commerce by bridging payment gaps between buyers and sellers while mitigating risk through instruments such as letters of credit, guarantees, receivables finance and supply chain finance. It also outlines the roles of importers, exporters and financiers, and the legal and documentary frameworks supporting transactions, with an emphasis on robust structuring to ensure enforceability and repayment. In addition, the guide addresses key risk mitigants, including credit enhancement, insurance and risk distribution, alongside common challenges such as fraud, operational complexity and cross-border legal issues. Reflecting market evolution, it highlights trends including digitalisation, standardisation and the growing participation of non-bank investors. It is designed as an accessible resource for both new and experienced professionals seeking a clearer understanding of trade finance and its role in supporting the real economy.  The guide can be accessed and downloaded here.
Sullivan & Worcester Named “Best Trade or Supply Chain Finance Law Firm” at GTR Leaders in Trade Awards 2026
London, 26 June 2026 – Sullivan & Worcester (Sullivan) is pleased to announce that it has been named “Best Trade or Supply Chain Finance Law Firm” at the Global Trade Review (GTR) Leaders in Trade Awards 2026. The award was presented at GTR’s annual awards dinner in London last night. This latest recognition continues an exceptional year for the firm’s market-leading Trade & Export Finance practice and follows its success earlier this year having been named “Best Law Firm – Trade and Commodities, 2026” at the inaugural Trade Treasury & Payments (TTP) Awards. Together, the two awards reinforce Sullivan’s position at the forefront of the international trade finance legal market. They highlight the continued strengthening of the firm’s trade and export finance practice, which has expanded significantly over the past year with the arrival of partners Robert Parson and Matthew Cox. Geoffrey Wynne, head of Sullivan’s Trade & Export Finance Group, said: “To receive two of the industry’s most prestigious legal awards in the same year is a tremendous endorsement of our strategy and our team. We have expanded our capabilities, attracted exceptional talent and continue to advise clients across the full spectrum of trade, commodity, supply chain and export finance, including advising DFIs on complex international transactions and helping clients to navigate the impact of the digitalisation of trade. This recognition reflects not only the expertise and commitment of our team, but also the trust and loyalty of our clients, whose support enables us to continue growing and innovating. It is encouraging to be recognised by the market in such a meaningful way.” The GTR Leaders in Trade Awards recognise excellence and innovation across the global trade, commodity, supply chain and export finance markets, honouring organisations that are shaping the future of international trade finance. This latest award also follows the recent announcement of the arrival at Sullivan of a leading Emerging Companies and Venture Capital team, led by partners James Shaw, Iain Cockburn and Ben Williams, significantly enhancing the firm's transatlantic capabilities and accelerating its strategic growth in London. Further details are available here. About Sullivan Sullivan & Worcester is a global law firm with approximately 200 attorneys in Boston, London, New York, Tel Aviv and Washington, D.C. Sullivan’s clients, including Fortune 500 companies, leading financial services firms and asset managers, boards of directors, and emerging businesses, rely on Sullivan’s ability to navigate complex legal and operational landscapes and its commitment to best‑in‑class client service. For further information please visit the firm’s website and LinkedIn. Contacts Geoffrey Wynne Partner, Sullivan & Worcester gwynne@sullivanlaw.com +44 (0)20 7448 1001 Will Hulbert PR, Hulbert & Co. will@hulbertandco.com +44 (0)7774 108 699
Sullivan Sponsors the 2026 ITFA Emerging Leader Award
Sullivan & Worcester is pleased to sponsor the 2026 International Trade and Forfaiting Association’s (ITFA) Emerging Leader Award. Entering the Emerging Leader Award 2026 is an excellent opportunity for up-and-coming Trade Financiers to showcase their talent, gain industry recognition and to stand out among their peers. As a proud sponsor, Sullivan is excited to support the next generation of leaders shaping the future of the trade finance and forfaiting industry. The final will take place at the ITFA Annual Conference in Split in September. Members of the Sullivan team will be there! Further information about the award, including how to apply, is accessible here and the LinkedIn page for the ITFA Young Professionals Network, here.

Geoffrey Wynne

Geoffrey Wynne

Geoffrey Wynne

Geoff has extensive experience in banking and finance, specifically in corporate and international finance, trade, structured trade and commodity finance, electronic banking and digitizing trade finance, structured finance, asset and project finance, syndicated lending, equipment leasing, workouts and financing restructuring and general commercial matters.

Recognised as one of the leading trade finance lawyers globally, Geoff advises many of the major trade finance banks and financial institutions around the world on trade and commodity transactions in virtually every emerging market including in the CIS, Asia, India, Africa and Latin America. He has worked on many structured trade transactions covering such diverse commodities as oil, nickel, steel, tobacco, cocoa and coffee.

Geoff also acts extensively for industry bodies including BAFT (the Bankers Association for Finance & Trade), ITFA (the International Trade and Forfaiting Association) and the ICC (the International Chamber of Commerce) on documentation and rules promulgated by them in trade finance.

He has recently been involved with issues including the ITFA White Paper on electronic Payment Undertakings (ePUs), the ICC Uniform Rules for Digital Trade Transactions (URDTT) and ITFA’s Uniform Rules for Transferable Electronic Payment Obligations (URTEPO). He worked with the Law Commission on the Electronic Trade Documents Bill which will help with the move towards digitizing trade documents.

The team which Geoff leads has won numerous awards and recognition for its work in the Trade and Export Finance industry. In 2026, Sullivan was honored as "Best Law Firm – Trade and Commodities" at the inaugural Trade, Treasury & Payments (TTP) Awards. In 2023, Sullivan was named Best Export Finance Law Firm at the GTR’s Leaders in Trade Awards, 2023. This followed the award for ‘Best trade or supply chain finance law firm’ at the 2022 GTR Leaders in Trade Awards, and ‘Best Trade Finance Law Firm’ by Trade Finance Global (TFG) in its International Trade Awards, 2022.

Geoff is ranked in Chambers UK, 2026 as a ‘Star Individual’ – the only lawyer in the UK included in this new category – and is included in the ‘Hall of Fame’ for Trade Finance by The Legal 500 UK, 2026 and is recognised as a Leading Lawyer (Market Leader) in the United Kingdom by IFLR1000, 2025.

Viewpoints
All Viewpoints
Late Payment Reform Proposals for SMEs
In a briefing note prepared for ITFA, Sullivan has highlighted the UK Government’s renewed push to address late payments through proposed reforms to the Late Payments Act. First introduced last year, the proposals would cap payment terms at 60 days for transactions involving small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The UK Government says it is aiming to improve cash flow and reduce pressure across supply chains, but which in reality many believe this may disadvantage UK SMEs. The reforms were confirmed in the King’s Speech to Parliament on 13 May, in line with the Government’s declared commitment to fairer payment practices and stronger support for SMEs. If implemented, the changes could significantly affect contractual arrangements, particularly in industries with complex supply chains. The firm’s briefing note outlines key elements of the proposals and their potentially significant impact on businesses, including the need to review payment processes, financing structures and supplier relationships. ITFA says it intends to continue lobbying the UK government to reconsider the details of the proposals. To read the full Sullivan briefing note on the proposed Late Payment Law Reforms or please contact Geoffrey Wynne for further information.
Trade Finance Guide 2026
Reflecting the firm’s involvement in all aspects of trade finance, partner Geoffrey Wynne has contributed to the updated “Trade Finance Guide 2026,” described as “the definitive reference for trade finance professionals” and published jointly by Trade Treasury Payments (TTP) and the International Trade and Forfaiting Association (ITFA). The guide provides a practical, practitioner-focused overview of modern trade finance markets, covering core structures, products and risk dynamics. It explains how trade finance underpins global commerce by bridging payment gaps between buyers and sellers while mitigating risk through instruments such as letters of credit, guarantees, receivables finance and supply chain finance. It also outlines the roles of importers, exporters and financiers, and the legal and documentary frameworks supporting transactions, with an emphasis on robust structuring to ensure enforceability and repayment. In addition, the guide addresses key risk mitigants, including credit enhancement, insurance and risk distribution, alongside common challenges such as fraud, operational complexity and cross-border legal issues. Reflecting market evolution, it highlights trends including digitalisation, standardisation and the growing participation of non-bank investors. It is designed as an accessible resource for both new and experienced professionals seeking a clearer understanding of trade finance and its role in supporting the real economy.  The guide can be accessed and downloaded here.
Sullivan & Worcester Named “Best Trade or Supply Chain Finance Law Firm” at GTR Leaders in Trade Awards 2026
London, 26 June 2026 – Sullivan & Worcester (Sullivan) is pleased to announce that it has been named “Best Trade or Supply Chain Finance Law Firm” at the Global Trade Review (GTR) Leaders in Trade Awards 2026. The award was presented at GTR’s annual awards dinner in London last night. This latest recognition continues an exceptional year for the firm’s market-leading Trade & Export Finance practice and follows its success earlier this year having been named “Best Law Firm – Trade and Commodities, 2026” at the inaugural Trade Treasury & Payments (TTP) Awards. Together, the two awards reinforce Sullivan’s position at the forefront of the international trade finance legal market. They highlight the continued strengthening of the firm’s trade and export finance practice, which has expanded significantly over the past year with the arrival of partners Robert Parson and Matthew Cox. Geoffrey Wynne, head of Sullivan’s Trade & Export Finance Group, said: “To receive two of the industry’s most prestigious legal awards in the same year is a tremendous endorsement of our strategy and our team. We have expanded our capabilities, attracted exceptional talent and continue to advise clients across the full spectrum of trade, commodity, supply chain and export finance, including advising DFIs on complex international transactions and helping clients to navigate the impact of the digitalisation of trade. This recognition reflects not only the expertise and commitment of our team, but also the trust and loyalty of our clients, whose support enables us to continue growing and innovating. It is encouraging to be recognised by the market in such a meaningful way.” The GTR Leaders in Trade Awards recognise excellence and innovation across the global trade, commodity, supply chain and export finance markets, honouring organisations that are shaping the future of international trade finance. This latest award also follows the recent announcement of the arrival at Sullivan of a leading Emerging Companies and Venture Capital team, led by partners James Shaw, Iain Cockburn and Ben Williams, significantly enhancing the firm's transatlantic capabilities and accelerating its strategic growth in London. Further details are available here. About Sullivan Sullivan & Worcester is a global law firm with approximately 200 attorneys in Boston, London, New York, Tel Aviv and Washington, D.C. Sullivan’s clients, including Fortune 500 companies, leading financial services firms and asset managers, boards of directors, and emerging businesses, rely on Sullivan’s ability to navigate complex legal and operational landscapes and its commitment to best‑in‑class client service. For further information please visit the firm’s website and LinkedIn. Contacts Geoffrey Wynne Partner, Sullivan & Worcester gwynne@sullivanlaw.com +44 (0)20 7448 1001 Will Hulbert PR, Hulbert & Co. will@hulbertandco.com +44 (0)7774 108 699
Sullivan Sponsors the 2026 ITFA Emerging Leader Award
Sullivan & Worcester is pleased to sponsor the 2026 International Trade and Forfaiting Association’s (ITFA) Emerging Leader Award. Entering the Emerging Leader Award 2026 is an excellent opportunity for up-and-coming Trade Financiers to showcase their talent, gain industry recognition and to stand out among their peers. As a proud sponsor, Sullivan is excited to support the next generation of leaders shaping the future of the trade finance and forfaiting industry. The final will take place at the ITFA Annual Conference in Split in September. Members of the Sullivan team will be there! Further information about the award, including how to apply, is accessible here and the LinkedIn page for the ITFA Young Professionals Network, here.

Geoffrey Wynne

Geoffrey Wynne

Geoffrey Wynne

Geoffrey Wynne