McDermott Will & Emery has appointed a new global head of projects following the hire of a senior partner from rival US firm Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld.

John Cogan, who also headed up the global projects practice at Akin Gump, will split his time between McDermott's City arm and the firm's newly-opened Houston office.

Cogan has been based in Akin Gump's London office since 2003, where he has focused on energy work in Europe, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East.

Commenting on his move, Cogan said: "The strength of McDermott's London office and its position within the market was a key factor in my joining the firm. I look forward to helping lead McDermott to the forefront in the global energy and infrastructure market. This move makes sense for my practice."

McDermott London office head Doron Ezickson said: "McDermott has established a strong energy practice in Europe in the last few years and I very much look forward to working with John and his team as we expand further."

Last month Ezickson, who co-heads the firm's energy practice, took over the reins of McDermott's City arm after David Dalgarno opted to stand down.

Recent additions for the firm's London office include former Lovells corporate veteran Hugh Nineham, who joined the US firm as European head of corporate in January.

McDermott launched its Houston office in February with the hire of three lawyers from Bracewell & Giuliani.