Clifford Chance LLP launched a Houston office in 2023 as it sought to cement its global standing in the energy sector. Though part of a national and international strategy, the new office brings it even closer to Latin America and its energy markets. In January 2024, the new office recruited counsel Joshua Bernard, a fluent Spanish speaker who has an extensive record in Latin America M&A. Bernard, whose background spans strategic M&A, joint ventures and private equity investments, is able to capitalise on the firm’s existing standing in the energy sector. The already large Houston office is expected to make a sizeable impact, including with the presence of David Sweeney, an experienced figure in Mexico’s upstream oil and gas sector, including acquisitions, divestitures and project development engagements.