Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton has bulked up its Moscow office with the relocation of a partner from the US.

New York-based corporate partner David Gottlieb has become the third full-time partner in the US firm's Russian base, alongside Scott Senecal and Murat Akuyev. The office also has around 30 associates.

Gottlieb, who relocated to Moscow earlier this month, focuses on cross-border M&A, but like the other two Moscow partners, he also practises capital markets law.

Gottlieb joined Cleary in 1995 and became a partner in 2003. He first advised Russian clients while based in London from 1997 to 2000.

His relocation follows the move of former Moscow-based corporate partner Russell Pollack to Paris earlier this year. Pollack intends to split his time between Moscow and Paris.

Gottlieb said: "The firm is interested in further developing the Moscow practice, so having an additional partner is helpful. Since Russell will spend a substantial portion of his time in Moscow it will mean additional resources for the firm in Russia."

Senecal, who has been based in Cleary's Moscow office since 1996, commented: "David is a valuable addition to our team here, not only for his excellent reputation in the US and Europe but for his previous Russian experience and strong relationships with Russian clients."

Cleary has a longstanding presence in the country, having first launched in Moscow office in 1991.