BLAKE DAWSON has strengthened its funds management and financial services practice with the appointment of Lisa Simmons, who joins the firm as a partner.

Simmons has gained significant experience both in Australia and internationally, most recently as a partner at Corrs Chambers Westgarth, and previously with Lovells in London.

She advises industry participants on all legal issues, whether arising as a result of regulatory change, industry consolidation, market competition or international or economic pressure. She has worked with fund managers, custodians, administrators, banks, insurers and others in developing innovative products, establishing new structures, negotiating contracts and assisting with a range of regulatory issues.

She has a particular interest in custody issues generally and in the growth of financial product distribution outside traditional distribution channels.