Reed Smith has expanded its London tax practice with the hire of Eversheds' head of corporate tax, Caspar Fox, who joined the firm's London office last week (4 January).

Fox will work alongside partner Harriet Morgan, who has been the only tax partner in Reed Smith's London office since former tax head Huw Witty left to join City firm Fladgate Fielder in 2009.

Fox advises on a broad range of corporate and finance transactions with a particular focus on M&A, private equity and financial services work. His recent work has also included group restructurings for international clients and the tax treatment of structured products. Fox is expecting to work primarily with Reed Smith's existing client base.

Reed Smith's Europe and Middle East managing partner Roger Parker said: "We have been looking to recruit a leading tax lawyer in London for some time to strengthen our tax capability further.

"Caspar's appointment will enhance our tax offering to our corporate clients. His strong background in finance and his international focus will complement the work of our financial industry group, in particular our funds team."

The news comes a week after Reed Smith promoted a quartet of lawyers to its London partnership as a part of a 25-strong global promotions round. The London appointments are spread across the US firm's London litigation, finance and shipping practices.

Separately, the firm has hired Stefan Schmitz from US rival McDermott Will & Emery for its energy, trading and commodities practice in London.