Global law firm Ashurst has appointed technology practitioner Alexandre Brazeau as a partner in its Corporate practice, based in Dubai. This strategic move underscores the firm’s commitment to enhancing its offerings in the Middle East, particularly as it seeks to bolster its global Digital Economy practice.
Brazeau brings a wealth of experience in the legal and commercial structuring of complex technology initiatives throughout the United Arab Emirates and the broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). His expertise includes large-scale digital transformations, artificial intelligence, data-driven platforms, fintech, and regulated technology products. He frequently serves as product counsel for leading technology firms and provides critical advice to boards, general counsel, and senior technology leaders on essential technology arrangements, including platform developments, cloud infrastructure transformations, and strategic partnerships in regulated environments.
Strengthening the Digital Economy Practice
Amanda Ludlow, global co-head of Ashurst’s Digital Economy practice, expressed enthusiasm about Brazeau’s arrival. “We’re excited to welcome Alex as we continue to expand our Digital Economy practice globally and establish a dedicated technology offering in the Middle East. Alex’s experience in the technology sector is standout, particularly his deep understanding of emerging technologies and the ever-evolving regulatory landscape,” she stated.
David Charlier, managing partner for the Middle East, echoed this sentiment, noting that Brazeau’s appointment reflects Ashurst’s ongoing investment in the region. “With initiatives like the UAE’s National Digital Economy Strategy and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 accelerating technology adoption, clients are seeking advisors who understand both the strategic and operational realities of digital transformation,” Charlier said. He emphasized that Brazeau’s extensive experience enhances the capabilities of the existing Corporate team in the Middle East, positioning the firm to drive accelerated growth for its clients.
Brazeau himself remarked on his decision to join Ashurst, stating, “Ashurst’s focus on the Digital Economy as a core pillar of its global strategy was a key factor for me. Clients are bringing increasingly complex and strategic technology matters to the market, and the strength of Ashurst’s teams across its global network, together with the momentum of its Middle East platform, provides the depth and scale required to support that work. I’m excited to join the team and to help clients deliver their digital and strategic objectives.”
Expansion of Ashurst’s Middle East Team
Brazeau’s appointment contributes to Ashurst’s growing presence in the Middle East, where the team has more than doubled to over 20 partners in less than two years. This expansion follows the recent hiring of several other key figures, including real estate partner Chris Beaumont-McQuillan in Abu Dhabi, banking and finance partner Clint Dempsey, corporate partner Maha Osman in Dubai, as well as local partner Leonid Stoliarski and financial regulatory partner Raheel Butt in Riyadh.
As Ashurst continues to build its technology and digital economy capabilities in the Middle East, the addition of Brazeau positions the firm to address the increasing demand for sophisticated legal services in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
