Baker McKenzie expands banking and finance team with KWM hire

Baker McKenzie continues to expand its banking and finance team with the appointment of King & Wood Mallesons (KWM) lawyer Brendan Smith as a partner in Sydney.

Smith had spent a decade with KWM, holding senior associate and special counsel positions. He also worked at Linklaters in London and Dubai.

“We’re excited to have Brendan join the firm's banking and finance practice where he will add further depth to our greatly expanded offering as we respond to increasing client demand,” said Duncan McGrath, Baker McKenzie’s Australian banking and finance head.

Smith is a highly regarded lawyer specialising in project finance, infrastructure, including road, rail, airport and social projects, and energy finance. He has represented a broad array of clients, such as borrowers and issuers, sponsors, and financiers.

Throughout his practice, he has dealt with a range of major transactions, including first-in-market ESG financings, across Australia. He also has experience advising clients on dealings in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. He frequently speaks at universities on project finance.

Smith confirmed that he is pleased to join Baker McKenzie, “particularly at a time of considerable activity and transition across the infrastructure and energy sectors.”