International law firm DAC Beachcroft has appointed a new partner to its Corporate team in Bristol with effect from 2 September.

James Reed joins DAC Beachcroft after 12 years at Baker & McKenzie, where he was a partner in the London office and formerly one of three founding partners of the firm's Abu Dhabi office.

An experienced corporate finance lawyer, James specialises in cross-border and domestic M&A work with a particular focus in the energy, mining and infrastructure sectors.

His arrival marks the latest senior appointment for DAC Beachcroft’s Company Commercial team in Bristol, which now includes eight partners working with blue-chip clients on a regional, national and international scale.

The team also works closely with the Bristol Real Estate and Construction team as well as colleagues in DAC Beachcroft’s London office to advise clients including St James's Place, Everything Everywhere, Spire Healthcare, Shore Capital and NBGI Private Equity.

Commenting on the appointment, DAC Beachcroft Bristol Corporate Finance head, John Williams, said: "We are delighted to welcome James to the firm. He brings with him a wealth of valuable cross-border expertise and considerable experience of operating successfully at a high level in international markets across the world.”

Bristol Regional Senior Partner, Tony Cherry, added: “The appointment of a lawyer of James’ calibre is further testament to the role of Bristol as the city of choice for many overseas clients, particularly in emerging markets, who are on the hunt for a keenly priced but high quality alternative to London. DAC Beachcroft is in pole position to capitalise on that demand.”

James Reed said: “I am delighted to be joining DAC Beachcroft. I was attracted by the quality and experience of the existing team and my background in cross border and international M&A should allow us to continue to offer clients a very high quality service at competitive rates. There is a very clear plan to take the corporate and commercial business in Bristol to the next level and I look forward to playing a key part in achieving that.”