Yu joins Norton Rose from Global Law Office where he was partner, and has a range of corporate experience having worked on a number of M&A deals as well as IPOs and private placements. He has also provided advice in banking, construction and engineering deals.

"We are concentrating on growing our China offices to reflect the demands of our clients. This is our second corporate partner in China in as many months," said London-based group head of corporate, Tim Marsden.

Head of the Norton Rose China practice, Peter Burrows said: "We welcome Michael to the Norton Rose Beijing practice. He is a lawyer with excellent experience and will strengthen our China corporate team."

Yu's appointment will bring the total to 45 at partner level across the Norton Rose Group offices in Asia.