LawFuel – The Law Jobs and Legal NewsWire – 18-Jan-2009 – First Firm to Provide Both Cayman and BVI Counsel Locally – See: <a href= Walkers Law Firm Announcement
Walkers, the global offshore law firm of choice for investment banks, international law firms, investment managers, and other financial institutions announces its further expansion into the Asian markets with the opening of a new office in Singapore. Walkers’ decision to open this office was driven by strong, recognised, and increasing demand for Cayman Islands and British Virgin Islands (BVI) legal and corporate services in Singapore and other countries within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region. Walkers will be the first law firm to provide practising Cayman Islands counsel based in Singapore and will also have BVI counsel practising in the new office.
“In recent years, we have followed a ‘smart growth’ strategy of targeted expansion to provide a presence on the ground in the countries where our clients require the support and expertise that we offer,” said Grant Stein, global managing partner of Walkers. “The opportunities presented in Singapore make it a logical next step in the process of expanding Walkers’ global development and meeting our clients’ demands. By extending our coverage within ASEAN, we will be able to provide seamless integrated Cayman Islands and BVI offshore legal and corporate services to clients operating in this region. Singapore has enjoyed excellent growth in recent years and we have no doubt it will continue to do so in the future, despite more difficult current conditions.”
The new office will officially open for business on 2 February 2009. Located at One Raffles Quay in the heart of the Central Business District, the office will be spearheaded by partners Ashley Gunning and John Rogers. With more than seven years experience in Asia, John Rogers will lead the finance team in Singapore. Mr. Rogers was the first finance lawyer in Walkers’ Hong Kong office when it opened five years ago, and he already has an extensive Singapore and regional client base.
“Singapore’s position as a key South East Asian hub for many international law firms and financial institutions will provide an excellent platform for growth in Singapore, India, and all of the members of the ASEAN,” Mr. Rogers said. “With the new office, Walkers is affirming its long-term commitment to the region.”
