K&L Gates has hired Pinsent Masons energy disputes partner Mike Stewart, marking the firm's second lateral partner addition in the City in a month.

Stewart advises contractors and owners on major construction and energy projects, specialising in international dispute resolution work.

Recent matters at Pinsents have seen Stewart advise on major power projects work in Saudi Arabia and Spain, a hotel in Eastern Europe, a rail project in Southeast Asia, the Delhi Metro in India and a large hospital in Jordan.

An English-qualified lawyer, Stewart also has particular knowledge of FDIC construction contracts, having advised on projects in Turkey, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Jordan, India and Sri Lanka.

"Our international energy, infrastructure and resources arbitration practice has seen real momentum in the past 12 months," said Tony Griffiths, administrative partner of K&L Gates' London office. "With his track record in international matters, Mike is an important addition to our growing team."

"With an international presence spanning five continents and a focus on emerging markets, K&L Gates is the ideal fit for my practice," added Stewart.

Stewart is the second partner to join K&L Gates' energy, infrastructure and resources practice in London this month, following the hire of White & Case PPP/PFI practice head Anthony Fine.

The additions take K&L Gates' partner headcount to 57 in London, though this is down from a reported figure of 60 at the beginning of 2013.