As it marks five years of existence as a merged firm, King & Wood Mallesons has named Zhang Yi, previously co-chief executive of its Hong Kong office, as its new China chairman, and also hired Donovan Ferguson as a construction partner in Hong Kong from Ashurst.

Zhang, who joined KWM in 1996, was head of the firm’s Shanghai office prior to his Hong Kong role.

Ferguson, who worked at KWM’s Hong Kong office between 2005 and 2011, specialises in international arbitration and has a regional practice advising clients across different industries. He has particular experience in major construction, resources, infrastructure and contractual disputes.

This month, KWM China promoted or laterally hired 30 new partners. In January, the firm boosted its Beijing office, hiring two partners from JunHe, as well as the entire China team of Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft, including its managing partner Rocky Lee.