Meng (pictured) joined the firm's Shanghai office from Herbert Smith on 1 September.

This follows the announcement of the arrival of Dirk Walker from Dewey & LeBoeuf in Beijing, who brought over a team of oil and gas specialists, including Dina Yin from Linklaters.

Meng’s practice focuses on China-related M&A and projects work. With more than 20 years’ experience representing multinationals, he is a leading practitioner in M&A, direct investments and joint ventures in China. His prior experience includes practising in Paris, New York and Hong Kong. Rupert Li, KWM’s international managing partner, said: “This is another coup for the firm. I've known Simon for many years. His vast experience is a great asset to our Shanghai office and to the expansion of our cross-border M&A and projects platform.”

Meng said joining KWM was an exciting proposition for him and his clients. “With its regional platform and dominant position in China, King & Wood Mallesons offers a clear competitive advantage in the fields I have been practising in for the past two decades,” said Meng.