Watershed Associates Opens London Office, Names Kim Gowing as European Head

LONDON, February 12, 2026 – Watershed Associates, a global negotiation training and advisory firm, has expanded its European presence with the opening of a new London office. The move, announced today, is anchored by the appointment of Kim Gowing as Managing Director, alongside Kevin Sander as a Director.

The London office will serve as a permanent base for Watershed to support its growing roster of multinational clients across Europe, offering negotiation solutions tailored to the region’s diverse and demanding markets. According to the company, the expansion reflects years of building business within Europe and a strategic decision to establish a physical presence in a key financial hub.

“We have been building our European business for years, and the time is right to put down roots in London,” said Steve Wiesner, Senior Managing Director of Watershed. “Kim is the ideal person to run this office. She has spent her career helping major organisations get better at negotiation, and she knows how to build teams that deliver. Kevin rounds out the leadership with strong operational and change management experience.”

Gowing brings extensive experience working with Global 1000 companies and other large organizations, focusing on developing negotiation as a core business capability. Her expertise lies in preparing clients for and managing high-stakes negotiations across various industries, utilizing both practical experience and established methodologies to achieve durable agreements.

Sander complements Gowing’s skillset with a background in leading complex change programs. As a qualified accountant with broad commercial experience, he specializes in guiding organizations through challenging transitions and building value through disciplined, people-centric approaches.

“European companies face real pressure right now, from regulation to restructuring to cross-border deals,” Gowing stated. “Effective negotiation skill is what separates the organisations that come out ahead from the ones that don’t. We are going to bring Watershed’s best thinking to this market and help our clients drive better outcomes.”

Watershed Associates has a long track record of providing negotiation training and advisory services to organizations globally, spanning over 30 years and 40 countries. The firm’s approach, built around its “Best Negotiating Practices®” framework, emphasizes a balance of empathy, strategy, and assertiveness to secure value while maintaining long-term relationships.

The company serves a diverse client base, including organizations across multiple sectors. Watershed’s services are designed to increase revenue, reduce costs, facilitate deal closures, and foster stronger business relationships. The firm’s leadership team emphasizes a commitment to measurable results and integrity in all engagements.

While the press release does not detail specific financial projections for the London office, the move signals a significant investment in the European market. The timing aligns with increasing regulatory pressures and economic uncertainties facing businesses operating in the region, suggesting a heightened demand for skilled negotiation expertise.

Watershed Associates’ expansion into London adds to a growing trend of international firms establishing a stronger foothold in the UK capital, despite ongoing economic and political shifts. The city remains a key gateway for businesses seeking to access European markets and attract top talent.

Contact:
Steve Wiesner, Senior Managing Director
media@watershedassociates.com, +1 310-570-2925
www.watershedassociates.com