Brodies advised Great Century, which is a partner of Hong Kong property firm Lai Sun Group, on the purchase of the Fairmont Hotel in St Andrews. Mr Asher and fellow partner Helen Abrams were at the forefront of the transaction.

Mr Asher brings more than 20 years’ experience in the hotels sector, during which time he has handled some of the most high-profile transactions in the industry, including the recent conversion of the Old War Office and the Admiralty Arch in London to luxury hotels.

He has particular expertise in management agreement negotiations, acquisitions and disposals of luxury hotels, and branded residential developments. With the addition of Mr Asher’s expertise, Brodies is now acting for several clients in prominent deals in Africa, SE Asia, Europe and North America.

Nick Scott, managing partner, said: “Scotland’s hotels sector has seen a significant level of inward investment over the past 12 months and these transactions are reflective of the appetite that exists among international businesses to invest in areas of the country that are popular for leisure and business tourism.

“The Fairmont is a world-renowned hotel, and this deal required the international credibility and expertise of the luxury hotels market that Bob, Helen and our team were perfectly placed to provide.

“Our standing as a UK top 50 law firm, as well as leading in our jurisdiction, means that we are able to attract lawyers like Bob to our firm, where our clients will benefit from his experience and international connections.”