Wastnage becomes partner at Tatham & Co

Tatham & Co has announced that Margot Wastnage will be joining the firm as a new partner. This decision aims to strengthen the company’s presence and business activities in Europe, particularly in France, Switzerland, Belgium, and Luxembourg, as well as in French-speaking regions of Africa.

Margot Wastnage began her career at Ince & Co, where she became part of the London Energy and Infrastructure group. There, she gained extensive experience in handling disputes in the energy sector and maritime law. Her professional background also includes roles in Ethiopia, Lebanon, and France, as well as a position at a leading P&I club within the International Group and a significant energy and commodities trader.

Areas of Expertise and Future Responsibilities

Wastnage brings a solid expertise in arbitration and has specialized in disputes related to charter agreements, including issues such as laytime, overloading, war clauses, force majeure, and frustration. Additionally, she advises on purchase and sale agreements for bulk commodities, carbon capture regulations, and the drafting and interpretation of clauses in charter agreements.

Since May 1, 2026, she has been leading the development of the firm’s shipping and trade practices in French-speaking regions of Europe and Africa. Furthermore, she will continue to expand the firm’s expertise in the global energy and renewable energy industries.

Stephen Askins, a partner at Tatham & Co, emphasized Wastnage’s suitability for this position: “We are honored and delighted to name Margot as our new partner. With over twelve years of experience in maritime and energy law, Margot’s career not only demonstrates the quality of her legal work but also the trust and relationships she has built with clients and colleagues throughout her career. As a partner, Margot will play a crucial role in shaping the future of our firm and will bring a strong commercial and collaborative approach that enhances our commitment to excellent service for our clients worldwide.”

Wastnage commented on her new role and the significance of Tatham in today’s complex maritime industry: “Our industry is evolving at an incredible pace, driven by geopolitical tensions, regulatory changes, and global challenges. Now more than ever, professionals in the shipping sector need clear, commercially grounded legal advice tailored to the realities in which they operate. Tatham Law is committed to making the international maritime industry more connected, resilient, and secure. It is an honor for me to contribute as a partner, working alongside our senior partners and emerging lawyers to provide the specialized expertise for which our firm is known.”

Wastnage’s appointment comes one year after the successful merger with Sea Green Law, aimed at further strengthening and expanding core competencies in shipping, offshore and energy contract disputes, admiralty law, and casualty response, as well as piracy, war, terrorism, and maritime security.

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