Hogan Lovells Cadwalader has appointed Dr. Yazid Almasoud as a partner in its Riyadh office, strengthening its Public Policy and Regulatory capabilities in Saudi Arabia. Dr. Almasoud, formerly a partner at Greenberg Traurig LLP, will lead the firm’s practice in the region, bringing a team of experienced Saudi lawyers. His appointment shows the firm’s commitment to enhancing its expertise in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.
A rare combination of expertise
Janice Hogan, global regulatory and IP practice group leader, highlighted Dr. Almasoud’s unique qualifications. “Dr. Almasoud brings a rare combination of senior government experience, public policy insight, and regulatory knowledge that is increasingly important for international and domestic clients investing and operating in Saudi Arabia,” she said. His arrival strengthens the firm’s ability to help clients understand not only the law but also the policy and institutional frameworks shaping the market.
Dr. Almasoud’s background includes nearly a decade advising HRH the Minister of Energy, where he supported legislative and regulatory reforms, governance structures, and institutional restructurings. His experience spans work with government institutions, sovereign entities, and supreme and ministerial committees. This deep involvement equips him with insights into Saudi Arabia’s evolving policies and their practical implications for businesses.
Strengthening the firm’s regional presence
Georgy Kalashnikov, head of the Middle East, emphasized the strategic importance of Saudi Arabia for the firm. “Dr. Almasoud’s experience advising government institutions on public policy and regulatory matters strengthens our ability to support clients investing, operating, and expanding in the Kingdom, where we envision further growth of our capabilities,” he said. The appointment reflects the firm’s commitment to growing its regional capabilities.
Dr. Almasoud’s arrival means clients gain access to a practitioner who understands how policy and regulation are developed and applied in Saudi Arabia. This insight is valuable as the country evolves its legal and regulatory frameworks, impacting both domestic and international investors.
A defining moment for the firm
Dr. Yazid Almasoud commented, “I am delighted to join Hogan Lovells Cadwalader at a defining moment for the firm. The combined capabilities create a compelling platform for clients operating at the intersection of business, finance, and government.” He looks forward to leading the Public Policy and Regulatory practice in Saudi Arabia and across the wider region, supporting governments, sovereign entities, and businesses on complex reforms, investments, and strategic projects.
The appointment adds a significant regulatory dimension to the firm’s Riyadh offering, complementing its transactional platform. It follows the recent recruitment of Adil Hussain as a Banking and Loan Finance partner in Dubai, further demonstrating the firm’s investment in the Middle East. These hires reinforce Hogan Lovells Cadwalader’s position as a trusted partner in the region’s evolving business environment.
