Herbert Smith Freehills has hired an equity capital markets partner from Allen & Overy, following the departure of its equity capital markets head earlier in 2020.

The firm bolsters its London office with the hire of A&O partner Michael Jacobs, who has been based in the Magic Circle firm's Hong Kong office as a partner for the past three years.

Prior to that, he was a senior associate at A&O's London base. He joined the firm in 2007 from Hogan Lovells.

According to a statement by HSF, major work he has advised on previously includes the initial public offerings of Worldpay, Virgin Money, Hastings Insurance, Neinor Homes and The Gym Group.

His hire follows the departure of HSF's Equity Capital Markets head Charles Howarth to CMS in April.

HSF corporate head Stephen Wilkinson said in a statement: "This strategic hire reflects our long-term commitment to investing in our business, particularly in Equity Capital Markets which is an integral part of our top-tier Corporate practice. Michael will play a key role in further strengthening our ECM offering to our clients."

For Allen & Overy, Jacobs is the second partner to depart its Hong Kong base in quick succession.

Earlier in June, U.S.-qualified debt capital markets partner Alex Tao quit to join Milbank, in a major hire for the firm's Hong Kong office.

A spokesperson for A&O said in a statement: "We would like to thank Mike for the contribution he has made during his time at Allen & Overy and wish him all the best for the future."

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