Charles Russell Speechlys has announced the hire of partner Francis Ho, to its construction, engineering and projects group. Francis joins the Firm’s London office from Penningtons Manches Cooper, and his appointment will further complement and add to the Firm’s expanding construction, real estate and disputes practice.
With over 20 years of industry experience, Francis is an adept construction lawyer leading and managing multi-tiered, innovative, and fast-moving construction projects in the UK and internationally. He advises his client base of developers, funders, high-net worth individuals, occupiers, and public sector authorities on a range of varied construction matters. Francis provides specialist advice on complex due diligence and procurement strategies for both corporate and real estate transactions. He also has a strong grasp of the Building Safety Act which will complement the Firm’s expertise in this area.
Francis has a particular strength in handling major projects, and he has been a lead advisor on various data centre, sports stadia, and power projects. He has advised on some of the first Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects in the United Arab Emirates and the development of new data centres and power stations across Africa. Much of Francis’ practice is centred around the hotel, retail, and leisure sectors, although he is equally well-versed in advising clients on matters relating to student accommodation and the private rented sector. He has strong expertise in financing arrangements on both lender and borrower sides.
In addition, Francis has expertise in sustainable development and regularly counsels his client base on matters relating to green construction, renewable energy, and Building Information Modelling (BIM). He also has experience in construction insolvency and can advise on distressed construction projects.
Steven Carey, partner and global head of the construction, engineering and projects group, comments: 'Francis is a highly experienced construction and infrastructure lawyer and a proven business generator. He has an exceptional track record and has been a leading driver of major ground-breaking projects across various sectors and jurisdictions. His practice aligns perfectly with our international growth strategy, and we are pleased to welcome him to the team and look forward to working with him as part of our continued growth.'
Francis Ho, partner, adds: 'I’m extremely excited by the strength and reputation of the real estate and construction teams at Charles Russell Speechlys. My sector focus blends well with the Firms, and I look forward to working alongside the team and being a key player in the Firm’s international expansion.'
Francis’ appointment closely follows the arrival of Ziva Robertson who joined as a partner within the Firm’s private wealth disputes team last month.
