Ashurst opens its first office in Africa by hiring a team

Global law firm Ashurst has recently launched its first office in Africa, located in Casablanca, Morocco. This strategic move is aimed at bolstering the firm’s presence in the region and expanding its Africa practice by establishing a local footprint.

Heading the Casablanca team is partner Ouns Lemseffer, who officially joined Ashurst in September. Alongside Lemseffer, the team comprises senior associates Meriem Komiha and Youssef Tork, as well as associate Yasmine Hitane. The diverse and multilingual team in Casablanca, combined with Ashurst’s existing Africa team in London, Paris, Madrid, and the Middle East, will cater to clients involved in projects, financing, structured finance, capital markets, and M&A/Private Equity transactions across the continent.

The new office in Casablanca will enhance Ashurst’s capabilities in project finance, structured finance, and private capital mobilization in Morocco and the broader Francophone Africa region. By leveraging their international expertise and in-depth knowledge of local laws and regulations, the team aims to provide clients with unparalleled service and support.

Expressing his excitement about the office launch and team hire, Lemseffer highlighted the significance of this move in aligning with Ashurst’s Africa strategy. According to Lemseffer, the Casablanca office is primed to seize market opportunities and facilitate complex transactions in Africa efficiently. This local presence will enable the firm to better serve clients and strengthen its market share in the region.

The launch of the Casablanca office marks a pivotal moment for Ashurst, signaling a new phase of growth for the firm. David Charlier, Co-Head of Projects & Energy Transition EMEA at Ashurst, emphasized the natural progression of expanding into Africa following the firm’s longstanding history in the region. Charlier expressed confidence in Lemseffer’s leadership and her ability to drive growth and innovation while navigating the dynamic African market landscape.

By establishing a physical presence in Africa, Ashurst aims to enhance its service offerings and provide tailored legal solutions to clients investing or operating on the continent. This strategic expansion into Morocco underscores the firm’s commitment to supporting clients in navigating legal complexities and seizing opportunities in the fast-evolving African markets.

In conclusion, the opening of Ashurst’s inaugural office in Casablanca, Morocco signifies a significant milestone for the firm, reflecting its dedication to expanding globally and contributing to the growth and development of clients across Africa. With a strong team of legal experts and a strategic location, Ashurst is well-positioned to drive innovation, foster collaboration, and deliver exceptional legal services to clients in the region.