Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer has added three new counsels to its Hong Kong practice: Edward Freeman (corporate), Gwen Wong (corporate), and Richard Bird (IP/IT). Freshfields has promoted 11 lawyers globally, effective from 1 Nov 2010. This round of promotions is in addition to the nine lawyers already promoted in May this year.

Freeman’s recent experience includes advising Gome Electrical Applia(one of the largest privately-owned electrical retailer in Mainland and greater China) in its requisition served by the company’s controlling shareholder; and global private equity firm TPG in connection with its investment in Hong Kong Energy (Holdings) Ltd, a Hong Kong listed alternative energy developer in the form of convertible preference shares. He joined the firm in 2002 and worked in London before relocating to Hong Kong in 2008.

Wong is currently based in the firm’s Beijing office. She advises on securities, public and private mergers and acquisitions, corporate advisory matters and regulatory compliance, and has experience in a variety of Hong Kong and China-related corporate matters. Wong has acted on complex deals such as China Strategic on its acquisition of Nan Shan Life Insurance from AIG. 

Bird recently advised a leading Chinese automotive manufacturer on its acquisition of a European car-maker.ALB

Other related stories:

• Freshfields appoints new Hong Kong Chief (2 Mar 2010)
• Hong Kong: Wilson Sinsoni sets up shop, appoints new co-head of China (25 Aug 2010)
• Gibson Dunn picks off GE in-house lawyer for Hong Kong launch (3 Aug 2010)