A Dubai-based infrastructure and construction disputes partner has relocated to Ashurst's Sydney office.

Bill Smith has extensive experience in the resolution of complex infrastructure and construction disputes via international arbitration, litigation, expert determination, adjudication and alternative dispute resolution, Ashurst said. He also has significant international arbitration expertise, including sitting as an arbitrator, which he will continue to build upon from Sydney.

"It is great to welcome Bill back to the Sydney office," said partner Mark Elvy, head of the firm's Asia-Pacific dispute resolution practice. "His knowledge of the global infrastructure and construction disputes sector will further strengthen our infrastructure and arbitration team, and our client offering. I am confident that Bill will play a significant role in growing the practice across the region and globally."

Smith was a partner in Blake Dawson (now Ashurst) in Sydney from 2005 to 2011, and rejoined Ashurst in Dubai early in 2019. In between, he was with Pinsent Masons, based in Dubai.

"I am delighted to be rejoining the Sydney office after a number of rewarding years in the Middle East," he said. "I will maintain close links with the region and look forward to bringing my expertise to the Australian practice."