Shoosmiths bolsters real estate finance offering with lateral partner appointment

Shoosmiths today announces expert real estate finance lawyer James Salford has joined the Banking & Finance team to enhance the firm’s capabilities in real estate finance, particularly across the hotels & leisure sector.

James joins from Bird & Bird where he spent five years as a Partner and Head of Real Estate Finance (REF). Prior to this, he spent 14 years as a Partner at Addleshaw Goddard.

Renowned as one of the few specialist hotel finance lawyers in the City, his experience acting on both the borrower and lender side of hotels and leisure financing has earned him a portfolio of clients made up of international banks, debt funds and a range of major property and hotel groups.

James has been six years ranked in Chamber UK for Real Estate Finance and Hotels & Leisure. In the Legal 500 2024 rankings, he was recognised as a Key lawyer in commercial property for corporate occupiers and in hospitality and leisure.

Shoosmiths Co-head of Real Estate Finance Liz Sweeney said: “James’ broad experience in REF coupled with his specialty in hotels not only builds on the work we currently do, but also adds another powerful string to our bow. His dedication to his clients and colleagues will make him a brilliant addition to the team and we are delighted to welcome him aboard.”

Commenting on his appointment, James said: “Shoosmiths’ breadth of real estate expertise and stellar reputation make it the ideal platform to continue growing my practice. I look forward to servicing our clients alongside this team of accomplished advisers and supporting the firm during this exciting period of expansion.”

Shoosmiths Banking & Finance team has doubled its headcount in the last four years and is set to continue growing in the years to come.