Just a week after announcing several new L.A. laterals, Reed Smith is bringing aboard Jinshu "John" Zhang, head of Greenberg Traurig's China practice.
L.A.-based Zhang said his practice will probably benefit from Reed Smith's strong presence in China, most notably its recent acquisition of Richards Butler Hong Kong.
"Overnight, Reed Smith has become a force to be reckoned with, with more than 100 lawyers on the ground in China," Zhang said. Zhang was at Greenberg for seven years and led its China practice. Last month, the firm opened a Shanghai office.
At Reed Smith, he will be responsible for the firm's China work "on this side of the pond," he said. Zhang's practice mostly involves M&A deals with Chinese companies and other international businesses, he said.
Most of Zhang's clients are following him, he said, though he's leaving behind some matters that Greenberg colleagues have been working on. He wouldn't mention client names.
He did say he's currently representing a major Chinese public company considering an acquisition in the United States, a type of practice that's heating up as cash-rich Chinese companies seek investments outside of their country, Zhang said.
"It's a great time for M&A representing Chinese interests," he said.
