International law firm DWF has appointed partner Julie Huddleston to its banking team in Belfast.

Ms Huddleston, who joins from commercial firm John McKee Solicitors, specialises in the secured lending aspects of corporate and property transactions.

Her appointment represents DWF’s first major hire in Northern Ireland after it gained a Belfast office through its merger with Belfast-based commercial law firm C & H Jefferson last December.

Ken Rutherford, executive partner of DWF Belfast, said: “Julie’s appointment enhances our banking and corporate capability, which builds on the strong commercial practice we offer our clients in Northern Ireland.

“DWF is the first UK commercial law firm to establish a complete Irish offering, with offices in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, we’re strengthening our capability to deliver to clients on either side of the border, as well as those based in other jurisdictions with interests in the region.”

Ms Huddleston added: “The Northern Ireland banking market has grown over the last 18 months, with an increase in lending from local banks and the continued expansion into the local market of UK and international lenders. Added to this is the impact of various loan sales and restructuring projects, with anticipated growth still to come.

“DWF has an established banking practice in Belfast and is rapidly growing its practice in Dublin, which is a great platform to continue to build on the expertise and reputation the firm already has in order to fully support its finance clients.”