According to a statement released by the firm, the addition of Mr Harris to Hogan and Lovells’ Australia operations “responds to the growing need for projects and infrastructure specialists in the market”.

Mr Harris is a projects specialist with 30 years’ experience, who has advised on projects across a number of sectors including energy, transport, water, health, education, telecoms, and defence.

With a focus on ASEAN jurisdictions, Mr Harris has advised project developers, governments and funders in Mekong countries, Indonesia, the Philippines and Singapore. He also deals with transactions in Mongolia, the Indian subcontinent, Australia and the UAE.

Joint managing partner Tim Lester underscored the value that Mr Harris would bring to the firm’s plans for expansion.

“James is an outstanding leader and highly regarded for his skills and deal experience across the key areas of focus for our practice in Australia. His regional and global overlay will further drive our growth and enhance our client relationships perfectly,” Mr Lester said.

Patrick Sherrington, regional managing partner for Asia Pacific and the Middle East, said Mr Harris’s move would bring global insights to Australia.

"James’s presence in Australia will further strengthen the firm's connectivity across Asia, the Pacific and the Middle East, and demonstrates our continued commitment and investment in the growth of our practice in Australia,” Mr Sherrington said.

According to Hogan Lovells, the announcement comes at a time of renewed importance for “targeted, sustainable and economically sensible infrastructure needs and investment across the country”.