Al Tamimi, the largest independent law firm in the Middle East, has laterally hired Abu Dhabi’s Jay Fortin from Patton Boggs to lead its office in Doha, Qatar – a key jurisdiction for Al Tamimi. Fortin’s appointment is effective Jan 2011.

Recognised as a leading power and infrastructure projects lawyer in the region, Fortin has over 20 years’ experience in project finance, including the development, acquisition and financing of power plants, ports and transport projects as well as aircraft and rail leasing.

Fortin’s appointment is aimed to strategically position the firm to help further penetrate the crucial projects and infrastructure sectors of the energy-rich market.

“Strategically Qatar is one of our most important jurisdictions and with his experienced leadership and expertise in the projects market, we will be able to capitalise on the region’s growth in [the years to come],” Al Tamimi’s founder and senior partner Essam Al Tamimi said in a statement.

Fortin will take the spot vacated by Ahmed Anani, who announced his resignation in August this year, to join Latham & Watkins as a partner in its Doha office.ALB

Other related stories:

• Al Tamimi poaches Clyde partner to lead arbitration practice (1 Dec 2010)
• Al Tamimi survives Jumeirah panel slashing (3 Sep 2010)