Ashurst has recruited a new global corporate partner to enhance its M&A capabilities in Japan.

Tracy Whiriskey—fluent in Japanese—joins the firm from Clifford Chance where she was counsel and had previously worked at Allens Linklaters where she spent her secondment at Japanese law firm, Nagashima Ohno & Tsunematsu.

Geoff Gishubl, Ashurst’s Global Corporate Divisional co-head said of the hire: "Apart from her solid experience in the corporate M&A and insurance space, Tracy's appointment adds to the firm's offerings both locally in our Tokyo office and globally. Tracy will be a most valuable asset for Ashurst as we continue to grow our practice in the Asia-Pacific region and provide clients with the benefits of an international network and global best practice in the M&A arena."

While at Clifford Chance, Tracy represented Nippon Steel & Sumikin Engineering on a $154 million acquisition of Fisia Babcock Environment (FBE) from Salini Impregila.

The firm has had a leading role in recent outbound Japanese transactions. Tracy’s appointment aims to further the firm’s presence on outbound corporate transactions for leading Japanese trading companies and corporates.