Freshfields has hired a private capital partner from Willkie Farr & Gallagher, Claire James, who will serve as head of its New York private equity practice, the international firm said Tuesday.

In her new leadership role, James said she wants to continue to "build out, train and retain a team" in the firm's New York office. "I think I'm an extension of the investments that the firm has already made, both here domestically and in Europe," she said.