Dechert has installed its first Beijing managing partner with the arrival of Henry Wang (pictured) to head the firm's Asian operation.

Wang joined the firm on Monday (1 September) from DLA Piper in Beijing, where he had been a partner for two years.

Prior to joining DLA Piper, Wang acted as general counsel to Shanghai General Motors, a Chinese-US joint venture company.

Wang, a US-qualified lawyer, worked for the United Nations and Chinese Foreign Ministry prior to pursuing a career in law.

In addition to heading Dechert's Beijing office, Wang joins the corporate and securities department as a partner. He has acted for financial institutions, global corporations and private investors in connection with Chinese corporate matters.

Commenting on his arrival, Dechert chair Barton Winokur said: "Henry's understanding of local Chinese government regulations and practice, coupled with his ability to structure transactions that bridge the legal and cultural gaps between the East and West make him a valuable addition to the firm."

The news comes just a week after Dechert won its licence to practice in Beijing, marking the second office in Asia for the Philadelphia-based firm.

Dechert's Beijing office will focus on advising financial institutions, domestic and international companies and private investors on all corporate matters.

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