LONDON – In a move that enhances its global finance practice, global law firm Reed Smith announced that structured finance lawyer Tariq Zafar Rasheed, will join the firm as a partner in its Financial Industry Group in London. Rasheed joins the firm from Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner (BCLP), where he led its derivatives practice.

Known for his client-first approach and deep sector knowledge, Rasheed brings an extensive structured finance practice, with a particular emphasis on derivatives, derivatives clearing, prime brokerage arrangements and structured products. He has advised leading investment banks, funds and corporates on both securitised and OTC derivative transactions covering a variety of asset classes.

“We have been looking to build out a full-service derivatives practice targeting prime brokers for some time, especially one that offers capabilities that are transferable to existing and new clients,” said Panos Katsambas, global co-chair of Reed Smith’s Financial Industry Group. “Tariq’s arrival will bolster an already formidable global structured finance practice, expanding our derivatives offering with a focus on prime brokers and fund clients. We are thrilled to have him join our team.”

In addition to building a formidable structured finance practice, Rasheed also played a critical role in the growth of BCLP’s derivatives team, whose Legal 500 rankings improved from Tier 5 to Tier 3 during his tenure. He is also a noted author, having written market-leading article on the regulatory implications of crypto derivatives, LIBOR reform and transition, and ISDA master agreements.

“When I considered moving, I prioritised firm’s where I could maximising the synergies between my capabilities and my future firm’s finance and banking client base,” said Rasheed. “My decision to join Reed Smith was driven by the compelling potential of combining my practice with one of the leading structured finance firms in the world.”