Simmons & Simmons is set to grow its German footprint with the launch of a Munich office after recruiting Field Fisher Waterhouse partner Thomas Adam.

The office, which is planned to open in March, will focus on life sciences and TMT sectors and will be the firm's third German base, alongside its offices in Duesseldorf and Frankfurt.

The Munich base will initially be headed up by three partners including intellectual property (IP) duo Adam and Rowan Freeland. Adam co-founded Field Fisher's Munich office and specialises in patent litigation and licensing agreements.

Meanwhile, Freeland, who has been with Simmons for more than 30 years, is relocating from London. He specialises in disputes and strategic advice related to IP.

Simmons has also secured the services of corporate partner Oliver Beyer, who joins the firm from audit and tax accountancy firm RBS RoverBronnerSusat, where he co-headed the firm's German practice.

Simmons managing partner Jeremy Hoyland said: "Germany is the fourth largest global economy and Munich is one of the most important commercial centres in the country. As such, our new office is an important step in expanding our offering to clients in our practices in the life sciences, TMT and asset management  and investment funds sectors."

Simmons first opened in Germany in 2001 after launching in Duesseldorf, and a year later moved into the former Frankfurt office of Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom.