Mr Kudnig specialises in the acquisition and disposal of mining and oil and gas assets, and infrastructure and resources/energy project development, according to a statement from JWS.

He also works on the preparation and review of sale and purchase agreements, government concession agreements, joint venture agreements, commodity sales agreements and construction contracts for major infrastructure and resources and energy projects.

In recent years, he has worked in a number of major cities including London, Frankfurt, Melbourne, Shanghai and Perth.

JWS managing partner Peter Slattery suggested the firm was focused on boosting its energy practice.

“Energy and resources is a core competency and a strong area of focus for us; Martin's 20-plus years of experience in international mining and oil and gas projects, and his strong client service ethos, will help ensure our practice continues to go from strength to strength,” he said.

Two months ago, JWS lost senior associate Michael Garry to Kain C+C, where he was appointed as a director. In September last year, long-time JWS partner Kate Lyttle joined boutique Laity Morrow.

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