Law firm Stephenson Harwood LLP has strengthened its international aviation finance practice with the addition of James Collins as partner, based in its London office.

Collins advises financiers, equity investors, arrangers, operators and lessors on a broad range of asset-backed transactions. He has extensive experience advising clients on financing, operating and tax-leasing structures, asset sales, export credit deals and equity investments.

“James is well-known for the strength of his technical skills and commercial acumen,” said Richard Parsons, head of aviation, Stephenson Harwood. “This balance of legal know-how and commercial focus is an approach on which we pride ourselves at Stephenson Harwood, and makes James an excellent fit for the team. I look forward to further developing our practice with James, and to meeting the ongoing and varied needs of our growing client base.”

“Aviation is a core strength of Stephenson Harwood globally and an area which we continue to focus on as we grow,” said Tammy Samuel, head of finance, Stephenson Harwood. “Our aviation team – which has lawyers across our network of offices – has both international and cross-disciplinary expertise: whether in relation to finance or contentious work. The addition of a lawyer of James’ calibre is another significant step in the development of the practice.”

The award-winning Stephenson Harwood aviation team has expertise covering the full spectrum of associated disciplines. The team advises on financing and leasing transactions, portfolio management activities, aircraft acquisitions and disposals and dispute resolution.