Global law firm A&O Shearman has established a dedicated real estate practice in Australia by appointing a partner from fellow BigLaw firm Squire Patton Boggs.
Dannelle Howley is set to join A&O Shearman, “marking a strategic investment in the firm’s local capability”, the firm said in a statement.
She is, it went on, a recognised leader in real estate law, with deep sector experience advising on complex, structured and large-scale transactions, with a practice that spans all segments of the real estate sector and industry, acting for listed and unlisted property funds, private capital, and government clients.
The appointment marks the establishment of a dedicated real estate practice in Australia for the global law firm, which it said reinforces its commitment to its Australian presence.
Howley joins from Squire Patton Boggs, where she has served as a partner for nearly a decade. Prior to this, she was a counsel at Allen & Overy (now A&O Shearman), special counsel at Holding Redlich, and worked as a lawyer at both Allens Arthur Robinson (now Allens) and MinterEllison.
She will be based in the firm’s Sydney office.
Lawyers Weekly understands that the appointment will be effective as of next Monday (3 November).
Speaking about the appointment, A&O Shearman Australia co-managing partner Jason Denisenko said: “Sydney’s real estate market is dynamic, competitive, and primed for growth. Establishing a dedicated practice here is a natural next step for us.
“Dannelle is a standout talent in the market, and her arrival strengthens our team and deepens our ability to support clients across sectors. As we mark 15 years in Australia, this is another milestone moment for our firm.”
The firm’s global co-head of real estate, Christopher Woolf, added: “A&O Shearman is globally recognised as a destination real estate practice, advising on the most complex and high-value transactions across both debt and equity strategies, often with a cross-border lens.
“In Australia, real estate is a key area of focus and growth for our private capital and institutional clients, as well as being a key part of our broader offering. With Dannelle’s arrival, we’re excited to deepen our capabilities and continue delivering exceptional outcomes for our clients.
“We’re delighted to welcome her to the team.”
Jerome Doraisamy is the managing editor of Lawyers Weekly and HR Leader. He is also the author of The Wellness Doctrines book series, an admitted solicitor in New South Wales, and a board director of the Minds Count Foundation.
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