CMS strengthens Middle East Banking and Finance practice

CMS has appointed partner Robin Balmer to support the growth of the firm’s Banking and Finance practice in the Middle East. Balmer joins from Norton Rose Fulbright, where he led the firm’s Banking and Finance practice in Saudi Arabia.

With over 20 years of experience in the Middle East, Balmer has a broad practice advising on asset finance, project finance, property finance, trade finance and Shari’ah-compliant transactions. He is recognised as a leading individual in both Chambers and Legal 500.

Balmer will be based in CMS’s Dubai office, but his practice will have a considerable focus on Saudi Arabia.

Adrian Bell, CMS partner and joint managing director for the Middle East and Asia, said, “Robin’s arrival is a significant boost to our Banking and Finance capabilities in the Middle East. His stellar reputation and extensive experience in the region, particularly in Saudi Arabia, will be invaluable as we continue to build a market-leading practice. Robin’s proven ability to develop strong relationships with clients and regulators alike will enhance our on-the-ground expertise and drive the growth of our practice. We look forward to his joining.”

Robin Balmer commented, “Joining CMS at this exciting time of growth is a great opportunity. CMS has a leading reputation among international banks in Europe, and I aim to replicate that success in the Middle East. By leveraging the firm’s strong reputation in Europe and its established regional offering, I am confident that the practice can achieve significant growth and recognition in the Middle East.”

This marks the fifth partner appointment by CMS in the Middle East in 2024 alone, following the hires of Ken Wong (July), Rizwan Osman (June), Keith Bullen (May) and James Abbott (January), reflecting the firm’s strong commitment to the region.