Mr Kirton, previously a partner in a large Irish law firm, advises Irish and international businesses on technology licensing and implementation, strategic contracts and sourcing, and the development, protection and exploitation of intellectual property.

He also advises on the procurement and deployment of frontier technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning.

Most of his clients operate in highly-regulated and innovation-led sectors such as life sciences, financial services, energy and telecoms.

Alan Connell, managing partner of Eversheds Sutherland Ireland, said: “Ireland is at the heart of the global technology ecosystem and is an essential jurisdiction for both providers and users of technology.

“As the country’s leading global law firm, our IP, technology and DP practice, with strong representation on the firm’s global TMT leadership team and AI leadership team, is seen as a centre of excellence internationally.

“It is also an area where we are seeing an increased level of demand from clients, particularly with large-scale data centre projects that are becoming more and more important to support all the technological advances that affect our day-to-day lives.”

He added: “A key element of our firm’s ongoing success is ensuring we have the necessary skillsets within our ranks to provide leading local and global legal and tax advice for our clients that not only meets, but exceeds their needs.

“David has a stellar reputation as an exceptional advisor, and his deep expertise in this complex and fast-moving field makes him a great addition to our IP, Technology and DP practice. I wish him every success and I am delighted to welcome David to the firm.”

Mr Kirton said: “I am delighted to join Eversheds Sutherland as a new partner.

“Now is critical time for providers and users of technology across all sectors, with the rapid adoption of frontier technologies such as artificial intelligence and significant regulatory developments in Ireland, the European Union and globally.

“As the largest and most established global firm in Ireland, Eversheds Sutherland provides the ideal platform to support our clients in seizing the opportunities that this seismic transition offers, and I am very much looking forward to getting started.”