Shearman & Sterling is pleased to announce that Karl Pires joins the firm as an M&A partner based in its Tokyo office.

Karl’s practice focuses on representing Japanese companies on strategic acquisitions and developing business ventures outside Japan. A 20-year veteran of cross-border M&A, Karl has significant experience advising Japanese clients in the energy, power, industrial, automotive and technology sectors. He has been based in Japan for over 10 years and speaks and reads Japanese fluently.

“We are delighted to welcome Karl to the firm. His experience provides multiple synergies with our already excellent team in Tokyo and the wider firm,” said David Beveridge, Senior Partner at Shearman & Sterling. “Karl’s arrival underscores our commitment to Asia M&A, in particular supporting Japanese companies as they go global.”

Asia Regional Managing Partner and Head of Tokyo Office Masahisa Ikeda added: “Karl is an excellent fit for our existing clients and Japan practice. His extensive cross-border M&A experience combined with significant industry knowledge is very complementary to our other practice areas in Tokyo and strengthens our client offering in Asia.”

“I am excited to be joining,” said Karl. “Shearman & Sterling’s stellar track record in Japan and robust Japanese client base are very attractive to me. I look forward to capitalizing on the opportunities that the firm’s platform offers and growing the M&A practice in Asia.”

Karl is an active member of several industry associations including the International Committee of one of the three local bar associations in Tokyo, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan and the Inter-Pacific Bar Association.