Lawrence Carter, who retired in 2022 as the head of DLA Piper’s employment practice in Tokyo, has rejoined the firm to co-chair the same practice group.

Carter has spent over 25 years of his career in Japan specialising in both contentious and noncontentious labour and employment law matters. He handles complex multijurisdictional issues such as reductions in force, terminations, and harassment investigations.

He takes on the role alongside fellow co-chair, employment partner Keiji Nasuda.

DLA Piper is also bolstering its Tokyo capabilities with the relocation of Hong Kong real estate head Ed Sheremeta to co-lead the same practice in the Japanese capital.

Both appointments reflect a growing client demand in Japan and Asia, said Masahiko Ishida, DLA’s Japan managing partner, in a statement.

“These are key strategic hires which demonstrate our commitment to further strengthening our presence in Japan. I look forward to the continued growth of DLA Piper in Tokyo," he added.