Iain Sandford
LAWYER & ARBITRATOR
Iain Sandford has almost 30 years of experience in law and international affairs. His career has spanned roles as a capital-based official in New Zealand's foreign ministry, a trade diplomat, a legal officer in the WTO Secretariat, and as external counsel to a wide range of clients, while a partner at leading international law firms.
Legal Dispute & Resolution
Including investment treaties, subsidies, sanctions, trade remedies (safeguards, anti-dumping and anti-subsidy measures), international sale of goods and distribution, and the international dimensions of intellectual property.
Dispute Resolution
As arbitrator and mediator in investment and commercial proceedings, and as counsel in arbitrations and before the ICJ, ITLOS, the WTO, and other international forums.
Public International Law
Including trade, investment, the law of the sea, international environmental law, climate change and sustainable development.
Career Positions
2026 – present
Iain Sandford Legal & Dispute Resolution | Principal
2025
Foley Hoag | Partner
2012–2024
Sidley Austin | Partner
2006–2012
Minter Ellison | Special Counsel
2002–2005
World Trade Organization | Legal Officer
1997–2002
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade | Legal Adviser (Wellington) and Second Secretary (Ottawa)
Current Listings & Memberships
WTO Indicative List of Governmental and Non-Governmental Panellists
EU List of Candidates Suitable for Appointment as Chairpersons for Arbitrations under EU Trade Agreements
WIPO List of Neutrals
Professional Conduct Committee, Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb)
Chair, International Bar Association Committee on International Trade in Legal Services
Nationalities & Languages
Nationalities: New Zealand, Switzerland
Languages: English (mother tongue), French (intermediate)
Professional Qualifications & Education
Admitted as Barrister and Solicitor in New Zealand, the Australian Capital Territory, and Australia. Admitted as a Solicitor in Ireland and England and Wales.
Master of Laws, University of Ottawa, Canada (2002)
Bachelor of Laws, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand (1997)
Bachelor of Arts, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand (1996)
Market Recognition
Lexology Index (previously Who's Who Legal): "Thought Leader: Trade & Customs" (2026), clients describe Iain as “experienced, knowledgeable and user-friendly”
Chambers Global: International Trade/WTO (Europe 2024) — clients describe Iain as "an excellent lawyer for strategic vision"
Best Lawyers in Switzerland (2024); Geneva Trade Lawyer of the Year (2022 & 2025)
“Iain brings a wealth of experience working with States and is highly regarded for his expertise in public international law, integrity, and independent judgment.”
Penelope Ridings, Member, International Law Commission (Global Arbitration Review, January 2026)
Iain welcomes enquiries from counsel and prospective clients on matters within his areas of expertise
CONTACT
T: +41 79 277 4059
E: is@isandford.com
LinkedIn
Based in Geneva, Switzerland, working with clients worldwide.
