The firm confirmed in a statement that Paul died unexpectedly on April 12. He had been on temporary leave since October 2018 owing to medical issues caused by exhaustion.
Paul, who had worked at the firm for more than 30 years, was the first UK-based global chair.
Baker McKenzie announced the news “with great sadness” and said that its thoughts are with Paul’s family, “who we will continue to support during this most difficult of times”.
“Our thoughts also go out to the very many friends at Baker McKenzie and outside the firm who worked with and admired Paul. For all of us, Paul was a visionary, a true leader and a good friend. He will be greatly missed,” the firm added.
Paul was in charge of Baker McKenzie’s global IP practice from 2004 to 2010, his clients included the well-known brands Unilever and L’Oreal. From 2013 to 2016, he was London managing partner.
Former editor of Managing IP James Nurton, who worked with Paul on several stories, said he remembers Paul as someone who was always approachable and had time to talk, even when he’d taken on the senior management roles at Baker McKenzie.
Nurton added that Paul was instrumental in the firm developing its trademark management offering and, in particular, taking on all the Unilever work and then building up the office in Manila, the Philippines.
Jaime Trujillo, a Colombian partner who was appointed acting global chair when Paul stepped down in October, will continue in his role while the firm identifies a new global chair.
Baker McKenzie has asked those who would like to pass on their condolences to Paul’s family to email: PaulRawlinson.Condolences@bakermckenzie.com
Managing IP would like to pass on our sincerest condolences to Paul’s family and friends.