The opening of the Bangkok office builds on the firm’s initial entry into Asia with the opening of its Singapore office in 2024, with the continued expansion aimed at further strengthening WK’s presence across the Asia-Pacific region and meeting the evolving needs of insurers and businesses operating in the area.

To lead the Bangkok office, Wotton Kearney has appointed partner Ian Johnston. Johnston joins from global law firm Clyde & Co, where he spent over two years as a partner in their Bangkok office.

In a statement, the international law firm emphasised that appointing Johnston to lead the new Thailand team will better position the firm to “serve its expanding client base across Asia, particularly within the energy, construction, and commercial sectors”.

Commenting on his appointment, Johnston conveyed his enthusiasm for joining the firm during such a “pivotal time” in its international growth.

“Having worked in Asia for over two decades, I know the importance of delivering technical excellence, commercial acumen, and cultural insight. The opportunity to build the firm’s Bangkok presence and collaborate with our Asia and global teams is one I welcome wholeheartedly,” he said.

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Ben Nicholson, managing partner for Asia, said: “Thailand is a critical market in the region, and opening in Bangkok allows us to be closer to clients operating across south-east Asia. This is another exciting milestone in our broader Asia growth strategy.”

“We’re building a cohesive regional practice with deep local expertise that supports our clients across borders. Ian’s leadership and reputation in complex insurance disputes make him the ideal person to lead this next chapter,” he added.

Joining Johnston at the Bangkok office are Sorawat Wongkaweepairot as partner, Nuttida Doungwirote as associate, and Tamonwan Supanukanon as paralegal and team secretary.