Bowmans hires new M&A partner in Johannesburg

Bowmans, a prominent law firm in South Africa, recently announced the addition of Justin Ramages to its team as a partner in the Johannesburg mergers and acquisitions (M&A) practice. Ramages, who joined the firm on 1 December, brings a wealth of experience to the table, having previously worked at MTN, a leading mobile telecommunications provider in South Africa.

During his time at MTN, Ramages focused on telecommunications-led M&A issues and actively participated in various dealmaking processes. Before his stint at MTN, he worked at ENS, where he was admitted as a lawyer in 2018, and TGR Attorneys. In addition to his professional roles, Ramages also serves as a senior lecturer in administrative law and statutory interpretation at the University of South Africa and as a visiting senior researcher at the University of the Witwatersrand.

Bowmans chair and senior partner Ezra David expressed his optimism about Ramages’ arrival, stating, “Technology, including telecommunications and fintech, is a critical growth area for Bowmans, and a key focus sector for us. We believe that Justin’s expertise will be invaluable to our clients as we continue to expand our presence in this important field.”

The technology sector in South Africa has been actively embracing the latest developments, with a particular focus on artificial intelligence (AI). Local companies have been spearheading initiatives to expand the footprint of AI data centers across the country, reflecting the industry’s commitment to innovation and advancement.

In 2025, Bowmans made several notable additions to its team in South Africa, further solidifying its position as a leading legal practice in the region. These key hires include commercial property partner Ernest Maboko in October, corporate and M&A partner Gasant Orrie in March, and M&A partner Nerina Erasmus in February. Each addition brings a unique set of skills and expertise, enhancing the firm’s ability to provide exceptional legal services to its clients.

Ramages’ appointment underscores Bowmans’ commitment to strengthening its capabilities in the technology sector and providing top-notch M&A services to its clients. With his extensive background in telecommunications and dealmaking, Ramages is poised to make significant contributions to the firm’s M&A practice, further solidifying Bowmans’ position as a trusted legal partner for businesses in South Africa and beyond.