Commercial law firm Hill Dickinson has appointed Keith Barnett as the new head of real estate in London.
Barnett joins from Taylor Wessing, where he led the real estate practice for 13 years.
He brings over 30 years’ experience in commercial property law, working with property companies, banks, financial institutions, overseas investors and property occupiers.
Hanna Ross also joins as partner from Taylor Wessing, adding 18 years’ experience in commercial property, with a focus on international investors and sectors like hotels, retail, student accommodation, data centres, offices and logistics.
These appointments support the continued expansion of Hill Dickinson’s real estate team, which now numbers 75 and has grown by 30% over two years.
Barnett said: “The opportunity to join Hill Dickinson’s hugely talented team was one that I couldn’t miss, so I’m thrilled to be heading up the firm’s real estate practice in London, helping the team to deliver on their ambitious growth plans.
“Throughout my career I’ve always been committed to guiding investors, developers and occupiers, and it’s this that will continue to drive me in my new position.
“Hill Dickinson is also home to some truly exceptional legal talent, so I can’t wait to get stuck in, mentoring junior members of the team and guiding them in their professional journeys.”
Ross said: “Having achieved strong nationwide growth over recent years, Hill Dickinson’s real estate practice presents an exciting opportunity for me to add my own areas of specialism to help further expand the team.
“I’ve spent my career guiding clients through complex transactions, both in the UK and overseas, so I look forward to continuing this work and sharing my expertise with the wider team, helping us to deliver the very best service.”
Fiona Parry, head of business services at Hill Dickinson, said: “As some of the best regarded real estate lawyers in London, the arrival of Keith and Hanna marks another pivotal moment for our fast-growing team whose growing reputation in the city and nationally is continuing to attract high quality talent from competitor firms.
“London has always represented a key opportunity for us to grow a sizable real estate practice in the city and these hires are a measure of our ambition in that regard.”
“With Keith at the helm, alongside Hanna, I’m confident that their combined expertise and position in the London market will ensure our real estate offering continues to scale up, allowing us to best serve our ever-growing client base.”
Parry added: “For more junior members of our team, their expertise will undoubtedly help them to develop in their own careers.”
