HBJ Gateley appoints Subsea 7 counsel as Aberdeen partner

Law firm HBJ Gateley has appointed Alison Sim a former legal director of oil and gas contractor Subsea 7, as a partner in its Aberdeen office.

Ms Sim, who joined the firm’s energy, shipping and infrastructure team earlier this month, will have a particular focus on growing the firm’s oil and gas and oilfield services practice.

Her previous role saw her lead the legal commercial team for Subsea 7 in the UK and in Canada. Formerly a senior legal advisor at the Wood Group and General Counsel at Production Services Network (PSN), she has also been involved with industry body Oil & Gas UK’s various work groups and the Legal Issues Forum.

Malcolm McPherson, senior partner for HBJ Gateley, said: “Alison’s background will provide valuable additional experience to what is already a very strong team. She has an excellent reputation in the oil and gas sector, and her appointment highlights the quality of work being done from our Aberdeen office.

“Alison brings years of experience with her, as well as an enviable contacts book in the UK and overseas oil and gas markets. Her experience, profile and reputation in the Aberdeen market will help strengthen our team and presence in the city.”

Ms Sim added: “Having spent my career to date in a variety of challenging in-house roles, I can bring to HBJ Gateley a unique insight into client requirements and priorities. That stands me in good stead as a partner at a very strong firm with a respected energy practice.

“This is an exciting opportunity for me to use the skills and contacts I’ve developed over the years and use them to help our clients in oil and gas achieve their business objectives in a very challenging marketplace.”