Ashurst strengthens Papua New Guinea presence with Michael Henao as lead litigation partner

Global law firm Ashurst continues its investment in Papua New Guinea with the appointment of Michael Henao as a partner to lead the disputes and regulatory practice in its Port Moresby office.

Ashurst provides a full-service offering in Papua New Guinea with expertise in disputes, major energy, resources and infrastructure projects, mergers and acquisitions, real estate, intellectual property, and commercial legal services. The firm continues to invest in Port Moresby with the additions last year of Tureia Sample and Christine Copland to the senior legal team.

Michael is a seasoned practitioner in litigation, regulatory and commercial work across sectors, including banking, finance, and telecommunications. He previously worked at Ashurst (then Blake Dawson) as a litigation lawyer and returns to the firm after over seven years as Head of Legal & Regulatory at Digicel Papua New Guinea and more than five years as a senior legal officer at the Bank of South Pacific.

Ian Shepherd, leading Ashurst Papua New Guinea partner, said:

"We are delighted to welcome Michael back to Ashurst. Michael is well regarded in the legal fraternity in Papua New Guinea and will be a great addition to our team. He will help Ashurst ensure the firm continues to meet the evolving needs of our clients. Michael's ability to navigate complex regulatory environments and his comprehensive understanding of various sectors gives him insights that will be of value to many clients."

Michael commented:

"I am thrilled to return to Ashurst, which has the global network and local presence to achieve the best results for our clients. The firm's values of quality, collaboration, and innovation align with my own. I am excited to lead the Port Moresby office's litigation practice and I look forward to contributing to the firm's continued success and growth, both in Papua New Guinea and globally."