Berwin Leighton Paisner has recruited partner Karen Friebe from DLA Piper to join its London real estate practice.

Friebe – who will start at BLP in the new year – specialises in the hotel and leisure sector on the acquisition, development and disposal of property as well as the wider real estate sector. She was the global co-chair of DLA Piper's hospitality and leisure group and led the firm's EMEA hospitality and leisure team for several years.

Friebe will work in BLP's core real estate group, joining the team which focuses on M&A, management agreements, development projects and franchising. In the past the team has worked with clients including Balfour Beatty, Barclays, Marriott Hotels and the Olympic Delivery Authority.

Chris de Pury, real estate departmental managing partner (pictured) said: "Karen has a wealth of experience across the real estate sector as a whole and her specific knowledge of the global hotel market will prove invaluable as we look to add further to our leading hotel and leisure offering. Karen will also be a great role model for our associates."