Global law firm Simmons & Simmons continues to expand its China employment practice, appointing Matthew Durham as partner in the firm’s Shanghai-based office.
Durham transferred from Winston & Strawn, where he was a partner based in its Shanghai and Beijing offices. He has lived and worked in Shanghai since 1999 and has extensive experience advising international clients on labour, employment, and corporate law issues in China.
Head of Employment in Asia Fiona Loughrey expects the firm to add four more lawyers to its Asia employment tam by December this year.
The move marks a reunion for Durham – he trained with Simmons & Simmons and qualified as a solicitor while working there in 1998. He was part of the Shanghai office for many years, and became a consultant in 2009.
“[Durham’s] long track record of advising firms and corporations on complex issues will add significant capability to address the employment and labour needs of our clients in the region,” said Julian Taylor, the firm’s international head of employment.
The firm said Durham has advised a diverse range of clients from different sectors, including pharmaceuticals, retails and insurance. He has also assisted on issues surrounding labour, including employment questions, separations, union matters, stock options, and incentive schemes.
“I have closely observed the practice’s growth and expansion since its establishment by Fiona in 1999 and becoming part of such a strong employment team in the Asia Pacific region provides a very exciting opportunity,” Durham said.
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