Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) has hired Neale Downes as a finance partner in Dubai from SGH Martineau’s London office.

Downes advises on corporate lending, structured finance, acquisition finance, trade finance, Islamic finance and project, construction and development finance.

Prior to SGH Martineau, Downes was a partner at Trowers & Hamlins in Bahrain for a decade.

“Neale’s extensive banking and finance experience, particularly in Islamic Finance make him a great fit for Watson Farley & Williams Dubai,” said Andrew Baird, WFW’s Dubai office head, in a statement.

“His particular experience across a range of sectors, including real estate, construction and development and infrastructure projects, align with WFW’s key sectors, making him a welcome addition to the firm globally.”