Global law firms Stephenson Harwood and Pinsent Masons have made partner hires in Dubai.
Stephenson Harwood has strengthened its projects, energy and infrastructure practice with the addition of Iwan Walters, while Pinsent Masons has expanded its Middle East financial services practice with the hire of Marie Chowdhry.
Walters has joined Stephenson Harwood from EY Law where he was a partner for over three years, according to his LinkedIn profile. Prior to this, he worked at Eversheds Sutherland for over 15 years.
He advises on the full life cycle of energy, renewables, water, and infrastructure projects, with a particular focus on clean energy and sustainability projects. He advises clients on their investment in clean energy and infrastructure projects as well as on energy transition plans.
“This is an exciting time for our Middle East projects, energy and infrastructure practice,” said Rania Tadros, Stephenson Harwood’s Dubai office managing partner. “Many countries across the GCC are undertaking a huge energy transformation, as the region aims for net zero emissions and embraces sustainable energy practices. We are committed to expanding our projects capabilities in the Middle East, particularly in the areas of sustainability and energy transition. Iwan brings with him experience honed over two decades of practice, and first-hand knowledge and insight into the region and industry.”
Chowdhry, meanwhile, has joined Pinsent Masons as a partner in Dubai. Previously a senior associate with the firm, she returns having spent several years as general counsel and head of compliance at Lean Technologies, operating across Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
Through private practice and in-house roles, she has accumulated experience advising clients across the financial services, payments, and technology sectors. Her practice encompasses financial regulatory compliance, fintech innovation, open finance and payment services, digital assets, and AI technologies.
With her addition the firm said in a statement it will enhance its offering to banks, intermediaries, fintech providers, and insurers in the Middle East and beyond.
“We are thrilled to welcome Marie back to our team,” said Colin Read, head of regulation, insurance and funds at Pinsent Masons. “Her deep expertise in financial regulatory compliance and fintech innovation aligns perfectly with our strategic vision, underscoring our commitment to expanding our financial services expertise in the Middle East. Marie’s presence will form the core of our proposition for banks, intermediaries, fintech providers and insurers, both in the region and beyond. She will support clients as they evolve their operations to reflect regulatory requirements, data privacy laws and developing regulatory risks.”
Chowdhry’s appointment follows a number of recent hires the firm has made in the Middle East, most notably that of Rena L. Scott to head up the construction advisory and disputes practice in Saudi Arabia.
