Squire Patton Boggs has further expanded its globally recognised Commodities and Shipping Industry Group with the addition of partner Hazel Brewer to the Perth Litigation practice.
Ms. Brewer joins the firm during a period of rapid growth of its Commodities and Shipping Industry Group. Her appointment follows that of Robert Parson (London), D. Michael Kaye (Washington DC) and Kate Sherrard (Singapore) who have all joined the firm this year.
Ms. Brewer began her legal career in shipping and commodities in London at Middleton Potts, then joined HFW in Dubai, before transferring to Australia in 2007.
She has 30 years’ experience in shipping, offshore, international trade and marine insurance. Her offshore practice includes contract advisory work and handling contentious matters arising under contracts for a broad range of vessels, charter parties and on the transport and carriage of export commodities. She also advises on regulatory issues, pollution incidents and environmental issues relating to marine activities.
Ms. Brewer’s client base includes Australian miners and exporters, oil and gas producers and contractors and operators, multi-nationals, ASX listed and private companies and marine industry insurers.
Tony Chong, Perth office managing partner and head of the Australian Asia Desk, said: “In these times international trade issues are adding complexity to international business transactions. Hazel’s expertise will be of great value to our clients. She will be working closely not just with our Australian offices, but with our colleagues in Asia and beyond.”
“We are excited to welcome a partner of Hazel’s pedigree to Squire Patton Boggs,” said Barry Stimpson, co-head of the Commodities and Shipping Industry Group and Singapore office managing partner. “A number of us have previously worked with Hazel and her practice, skills and considerable experience make her a superb addition to our global team, and greatly enhances our shipping and commodities capability in Australia and in the wider Asia Pacific region. The continued development of our services in this area is a key strategic goal for the firm and we look forward to Hazel’s arrival and the opportunity to work together again to the benefit of our clients.”
Speaking of her move, Ms. Brewer commented: “I am really pleased to be joining this market-leading and energetic team and look forward to the transition.”
The firm’s Commodities and Shipping Industry Group launched in November 2019. The global team provides a full range of legal services on all aspects of international trade and shipping and across all commodity sectors, including advice and assistance with transactions, corporate matters, trade finance, litigation and arbitration, regulatory matters, environmental law, conventional and renewable energy, derivatives and projects.