KWM grows in HK with lateral appointments

King & Wood Mallesons (KWM) is growing in Hong Kong with the appointment of two partners from two global law firms.

Ashley Wong joined the firm last week from Mayer Brown, while Yu Wang will move to the firm next month from Morrison & Foerster.

“These appointments, in addition to our expansions in July 2018, reflect the increasing cross-border transactional demand in the PRC and will help pave the way for our ambition to capture opportunities from the Greater Bay Area and globally. We believe these appointments will help improve the depth, quality and breadth of our service offering as we continue to execute our growth strategy,” said Hayden Flinn, co-chief executive of KWM Hong Kong.

Wong, who has more than 15 years of experience in aviation matters, has been tasked to lead the firm’s Hong Kong aviation practice. She advises in a wide range of aviation matters, including aircraft portfolio management, financing, sale and leaseback arrangements, maintenance agreements, and other commercial arrangements.

“Ashley’s extensive track record and sector experience will complement our international aviation practice. Her language capabilities will enable her to work effectively on transactions involving both international and Chinese entities,” said Richard Mazzochi, who heads KWM Hong Kong’s banking and finance practice.

Wang boosts the firm’s US capital markets capabilities, KWM said. He has more than a decade of experience in advising on securities offerings, private equity, and other corporate transactions.

“Yu’s experience advising Chinese and international clients on US capital markets transactions will add to our unique strength in offering one-stop-shop support in respect of Hong Kong, PRC, and US legal advice,” said Dr Sheldon Tse, who leads KWM Hong Kong’s corporate and securities practice.

The appointments come after KWM expanded its Hong Kong office in July with the promotion of four partners, eight counsel and senior associates, and two senior lawyers.

“Such appointments demonstrate our commitment to attracting and promoting talented lawyers to best serve our clients. Their extensive experience and client base will add value to our firm-wide initiative in improving the client experience to ensure service delivery of the highest quality,” said Hao Zhou, managing partner of clients.