#Japan #Tokyo #Real Estate #Greenberg Traurig #Reiko Saito

Greenberg Traurig Enters a New Phase in Asia with Key Hire

Global law firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP has made a significant move to expand its footprint in Asia by hiring Reiko Saito as Of Counsel in its Tokyo office. This strategic decision underscores the firm's dedication to enhancing its already robust Asia Real Estate Practice. Saito, who is recognized as an experienced Japanese law-qualified bengoshi, will bring her expertise in real estate finance to a team that serves both local and international clients.

Who is Reiko Saito?

Reiko Saito comes with an impressive track record, advising a diverse range of stakeholders including investors, property owners, and managers on various real estate transactions. Her knowledge covers critical areas such as acquisitions, dispositions, joint ventures, fund structures, and development projects, which are essential in the multi-faceted Asian market.

Before joining Greenberg Traurig, Saito was part of Morrison Foerster, where she honed her skills dealing with complex financing cases and structured finance. Her comprehensive understanding of asset-based lending and securitization is expected to significantly contribute to the firm's capabilities. Furthermore, Saito’s experience spans not only real estate but also extends to energy and infrastructure transactions. This breadth of experience will be instrumental in managing projects that are inherently tied to real estate, especially those involving data centers—an emerging trend in today's digital economy.

Greenberg Traurig's Vision

Joel H. Rothstein, chair of Greenberg Traurig’s Asia Real Estate Practice, expressed enthusiasm about Saito's addition to the team. He stated, "We are delighted to welcome Reiko to our Tokyo team. Her deep experience in complex financings and securitizations significantly strengthens our ability to support clients in Japan and across Asia." This sentiment reflects the firm's steadfast commitment to investing in top-tier talent to bolster its service offerings in the competitive Asian market.

Additionally, Koji Ishikawa, managing shareholder of the Tokyo office, reiterated the firm's priority: attracting exceptional legal talent to ensure outstanding service delivery. By welcoming Saito, the firm is not just expanding its team; it is enhancing its real estate finance capabilities at a pivotal time of growth in the region.

A Strong Educational Background

Reiko Saito is well-prepared for her role, holding an LL.M. from Northwestern University in the United States, alongside an LL.B. from Waseda University in Tokyo. This strong educational background equips her with the knowledge necessary to navigate the intricacies of both Japanese law and the international legal landscape.

Looking Ahead

Saito articulated her excitement about joining Greenberg Traurig, highlighting the firm’s collaborative culture and its global reputation for handling intricate real estate transactions as major factors for her decision. Having previously worked alongside several of her new colleagues, Saito looks forward to reconnecting and furthering her legal practice in Asia and beyond. Collaborating with the well-established teams at Greenberg Traurig, she aims to contribute not only to client success but also to the firm’s growth trajectory.

Greenberg Traurig, with its global reach encompassing over 3,000 lawyers across 51 locations, stands poised to capitalize on new opportunities across borders and industries. With Saito on board, the firm's already strong reputation in real estate, bolstered by its strategic growth initiatives, is likely to resonate throughout Asia and the global legal market more broadly.