DLA Piper International doubles down on Latin America through strategic team relocation

DLA Piper International is sharpening its focus on Latin America through the strategic relocation to London of Ricardo Gardini de Andrade, partner in the firm's Litigation & Regulatory practice.

Qualified in Brazil, Ricardo's move to London is a sign of the firm' commitment to Latin America, and in particular the Brazilian market. Joining Ricardo in London to support his practice is Gabriela Burmeister, a Brazilian-qualified associate in the firm's Litigation & Regulatory practice.

Ricardo is a trusted advisor to some of the largest companies and financial institutions in Brazil. He also represents a number of international organisations with Brazilian operations. His areas of specialism include arbitration, litigation, and dispute resolution, having advised on major matters such as:

• Representing one of the largest Brazilian conglomerates in a multi-billion dollar post-M&A dispute in the pulp sector across Brazil, UK, Austria and Singapore
• Acting as trusted advisor to one of the world's largest food companies, a Brazilian group dual listed in New York and São Paulo, on a complex and high-value dispute, and corporate matters in UK and Continental Europe
• Advising a Brazilian mining company on complex transactions and corporate matters across the globe
• Assisting a European telecom group in a high-profile international arbitration against a Brazilian company

This strategic relocation complements the firm's broader Latin America offering - which includes a strong presence in São Paulo - comprises of over 400 lawyers advising on some of the most significant mandates in the region.

Bob Bishop, Managing Director of the Americas, DLA Piper, commented: “Ricardo's move to London is a key milestone in the implementation our strategic plan for Latin America. Bringing his knowledge and understanding of the region, client connections and depth of relevant experience closer to the centre of the firm will help Ricardo and our wider Latin America team better leverage the firm's global platform, for the benefit of our clients within the region and beyond.”

Neil Bowker, UK Group Head of Litigation & Regulatory, DLA Piper, added: “We have had the pleasure of working with Ricardo on international mandates prior to his move and are delighted that he is joining us in London permanently. He is an exceptional lawyer and his move forms part of a wider, geographically focused strategy for the London-based team.”