Leading international law firm Herbert Smith Freehills has announced the appointment of Tokyo partner Andrew Blacoe as managing partner for North Asia.

Also head of corporate for North Asia, Andrew has practised in London, Sydney and in Tokyo since 2013. He has substantial experience advising regional clients on global energy, infrastructure and resources investments and projects.

Andrew succeeds partner David Gilmore in the managing partner role – David remains head of disputes for North Asia based in Tokyo.

"Andrew's deep understanding of our client base in Japan and Korea makes him the ideal candidate to take over our growth ambitions for those clients and the North Asia region," said Asia managing partner May Tai.  

"As North Asia accelerates its post-Covid opening, we look forward to Andy's externally-focused approach to leading and growing our business there, and its contribution to our ongoing expansion in Asia." 

"I'd also like to thank David for his many achievements in the managing partner role over the past six years, not least dealing with the challenges posed by the pandemic."