Stephenson Harwood snares Ashurst star

Avery was ­previously a partner in Ashurst’s ­energy, transport and infrastructure team. His work included advising ­funders on the 2003 London ­Underground redevelopment PPP. During his 12 years with the City firm he also served on the London managing ­partners committee and was ­training principal.

The hire follows the appointment of finance partners Graeme McLellan from Pinsent Masons and Richard Parsons from Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer last October. Clare McConnell, another ex-Pinsents partner, joined the project finance team in February 2009.