Formerly the head of NRF’s Sydney office, Koch advises on project finance and related transactions, including acquisition and corporate finance across energy, natural resources and infrastructure (ENRI). She is qualified to practice in Australia, England and Wales, and South Africa.

This news comes after the addition of a five-strong international partner team, including Australia-based partners Anna Gamvros and Ross Phillipson, also from NRF, in February last year.

The news also follows the completion of the merger between Allen & Overy and Shearman & Sterling to create A&O Shearman in May last year. The firm then said it would cut 10 per cent of its partners during this financial year in September. In March this year, however, the firm promoted 33 partners across the world, including three in Australia.

A key part of Koch’s practice is focused on energy transition and sustainability finance, including the financing of carbon offset generation projects – something that will enhance A&O Shearman’s energy, natural resources and infrastructure (ENRI) capacity across Australia, Asia-Pacific region, and globally, according to global co-head of ENRI David Lee.

“Lisa’s addition to the firm is an important part of our continuing investment globally,” he said.

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“Asia-Pacific is a key part of our world-leading ENRI practice. This is especially so in Australia – a vital market for many of our clients in both energy transition infrastructure and critical minerals development.”

Global co-head of ENRI and mining sector co-lead Cynthia Urda Kassis added that Koch’s expertise will be particularly valuable in Perth.

“Australia, specifically Perth, is one of the main centres for the global mining and metals sector, both in terms of industry expertise and innovation and its role as a global gateway for the industry. Lisa brings leading expertise across the interrelated spectrum of mining, energy and infrastructure financings and transactions,” she said.

“She is a wonderful addition to our top-tier global mining practice, adding to the depth and breadth of our practice both in Perth and globally.”

The new appointment comes as A&O Shearman celebrates 15 years in Australia, said the co-managing partner of A&O Shearman in Australia, David Jenaway.

“Lisa is a recognised market leader, and her hire will enhance our ability to continue to deliver leading advice to our domestic and global client base,” he said.

“As we celebrate 15 years in the Australian market, Lisa will be instrumental in setting ourselves up to build on our success.”