Shearman & Sterling will further strengthen the finance law capabilities of its Middle East practice with the transfer of London-based finance partner Iain Goalen. Iain will move to the firm’s Abu Dhabi office in early April 2010.

Iain became a partner at Shearman & Sterling in 1998 and has more than 15 years’ experience advising on acquisition finance and other banking transactions. Chambers UK 2010 guide recommends him as being a leader in his field.

Iain has advised on the finance aspects of many significant acquisitions, including:

• The Abu Dhabi United Group Investment & Development Limited’s acquisition of 90% of the ordinary shares of Manchester City Limited, the holding company of Manchester City Football Club
• Mid Europa Partners' purchase of a controlling stake in Hungarian Telecoms Group, Invitel (the second-largest fixed line telecommunications and broadband internet services provider in Hungary)

Shearman & Sterling opened its Abu Dhabi office in 1975.