International law firm Penningtons Manches Cooper has appointed Zhi Chao Chor as a partner in its Singapore office, bolstering its capabilities in commodities and trade finance. Zhi Chao, a dual-qualified lawyer, brings extensive experience from his previous roles at Wong Partnership and Rajah & Tann, where he specialised in sustainability-linked finance, leveraged finance, Islamic finance, and real estate finance.
Zhi Chao’s notable achievements include advising on a $1.393b credit facility for Mercuria Energy Group and a S$540m refinancing for Accor’s Mercure and Novotel hotels in Singapore. His expertise is expected to enhance the firm’s existing strengths and complement its international offerings.
Johan Wong, head of Penningtons Manches Cooper’s Singapore office, expressed enthusiasm about Zhi Chao’s arrival, stating, “Zhi Chao is a first-rate lawyer and his acknowledged expertise will further boost the firm’s banking, trade finance and commodities practices.” Zhi Chao himself is eager to contribute, saying, “I am delighted to be joining Penningtons Manches Cooper. This feels like a great opportunity and I cannot wait to get started.”
The addition of Zhi Chao follows the recent appointment of Max Lim, indicating the firm’s strategic focus on expanding its presence and capabilities in the region. This move is set to open up new opportunities for the firm in Singapore and beyond, as it continues to serve a diverse range of clients in the Asia Pacific region.
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