Squire Barton Boggs Announces New Leadership Appointments for Middle East Practice
Squire Patton Boggs, a prominent global law firm, has named Gassan Baloul and Thomas Wilson, both partners at the firm, as co-chairs of its Middle East practice.
Mark Ruehlmann, Chairman and Global CEO, expressed confidence in the firm’s continued growth in the Middle East under the leadership of Baloul and Wilson. With over 50 years of operating in the region, the firm aims to expand its business to align with the anticipated growth in the coming years.
Baloul, who brings a unique perspective as someone raised in the Middle East and the US, serves on the global board of directors and leads the firm’s initiatives in emerging markets. His practice primarily focuses on litigation, arbitration, investigations, and government relations, catering to Middle Eastern clients including governments, financial institutions, and high net worth individuals.
Wilson, representing a diverse range of clients including state entities and multinational corporations, specializes in international arbitration and other disputes arising from operations and projects in Middle Eastern countries, particularly in the engineering and construction sectors. He also serves on the firm’s global board of directors.
Baloul expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating, “As part of Squire Patton Boggs’ leadership, I am thrilled to strengthen our commitment to clients in the region. The Middle East offers a dynamic blend of cultures and economies.” He emphasized the firm’s established skills and relationships, enabling successful partnerships with clients in achieving their objectives.
With 15 years of experience in the UAE, Wilson highlighted the exciting prospects for the firm and the region as the Middle East’s economy diversifies. He acknowledged the importance of regulatory and policy considerations in conducting business in the region and mentioned that the firm is already in discussions with potential new team members.
In a significant move earlier this year, Squire Patton Boggs entered into a partnership agreement with Looaye M. Al Akkas LLP, a leading full-service law firm in Saudi Arabia. This collaboration further strengthens the firm’s presence and capabilities in the region.