Stephen was the first Allen & Overy partner that I met, more than 25 years ago. He came to Cambridge as part of the firm’s LL.M programme tour, scouting for talent. I was surprised how much this gentle giant with deep blue eyes, prominent beard and a kind smile knew about Central Europe. When he announced that the firm was considering opening an office in my home town Bratislava, I was sold. Over the years, he came to visit Igor Palka, Hugh Owen and myself quite regularly in Bratislava and even invited me to join him on subsequent UK university tours. To me, he personified the kind, collaborative and meritocratic culture of the firm. I was very fortunate to have met him. R.I.P Stephen.