Reed Smith LLP

With six partners based out of London who have a focus on transportation finance matters and also aided by a strong geographical spread across Asia, Middle East, Europe and the US, Reed Smith LLP is well-positioned to advise clients on cross-border mandates, irrespective of geographical location. The team has gained most acclaim for its funds-related work in the shipping and aviation sectors, with investor clients appreciative not only of the direct asset finance strength but also the ability to leverage broader restructuring and litigation competences. These complementary skills are particularly important in relation to non-performing loan transactions, an area that Robert Wilkins is particularly skilled on the buy-side within the shipping sector. Richard Hakes, who co-heads the team alongside Wilkins, has 'exceptional understanding of fund financing and inter-creditor issues', and is consequently well-positioned to advise on complex structured finance-related shipping mandates, as well as his premium work for private equity funds within the aviation sector. Praised for his 'positive attitude and ability to push deals through', Philip Rymer is also a key member of the team for more conventional ship financing mandates. 'Solutions-oriented' counsel Andrew Harper  is 'always on top of legal and industry developments' and is gaining an excellent reputation in the aviation sector among banks, lessors and funds.