WFW strengthens Middle East Energy practice with new partner hire
Watson Farley & Williams (“WFW”) has announced that energy and infrastructure expert Mhairi Garcia has joined the firm as a partner in Dubai and head of the Middle East projects and corporate group.
Specialising in corporate and commercial aspects of energy and infrastructure projects, Garcia has over 20 years’ experience in the Middle East and Africa, where she has acted on a number of high-profile and first-of-a-kind projects and is recognised by leading legal directories The Legal 500 and Chambers for her expertise. She advises sponsors, lenders, contractors and public sector clients across the Middle East, Africa and beyond on a wide range of project development and M&A in the energy and infrastructure sectors.
Garcia has particular expertise in renewable and conventional utilities projects (including solar PV, CSP, wind, waste-to-energy and hydrogen), as well as oil and gas projects including acquisitions and disposals, the development of upstream oil and gas projects and sales arrangements. Her infrastructure practice includes advising on the first rail projects in the GCC and advising on school, hospital and road projects in the Middle East and Africa.
Garcia arrives from Dentons where she was Middle East regional head of energy, transport and infrastructure.
WFW Dubai office head Charlotte Bijlani commented, “I am delighted to welcome Mhairi to WFW Dubai. Her practice mirrors our focus on energy and infrastructure, and her impressive network of connections and wealth of expertise will enhance our energy practice both in Dubai and globally”.
Global energy sector co-head Henry Stewart added, “Mhairi joining us represents a major boost for our global energy and infrastructure sector and she will play a key role in further developing our Middle East and Africa-focussed projects practice alongside fellow Dubai Partner Alhassane Barry.”
Mhairi Garcia commented, “I am thrilled to be joining a growing team at WFW. I am looking forward to working as a unified team to build upon our combined expertise in the energy and infrastructure sectors. In particular, I am excited about the opportunity to develop the regional practice, focussing on the growth of the practice in all areas related to the energy transition”
