Withers KhattarWong, the Singapore office of Withersworldwide, announced that Deborah Barker, SC, will be stepping down as the firm’s Managing Partner.
Shashi Nathan, Partner and Head of the Singapore White Collar Defence and Investigations Practice, and Daniel Yong, Partner and Head of the Singapore Funds Practice, will take over as Joint Managing Partners effective March 31, 2024.
The appointment of Nathan and Yong coincides with the firm’s 50th anniversary celebration, marked by several initiatives to give back to the community. Their appointments also underscore Withers KhattarWong’s success in integrating into Withers’ international legal network, while still maintaining its strong Singapore branding and leadership in local law.
Reflecting this are the two Managing Partners’ solid credentials in their respective Singapore and international practices.
Nathan is one of Singapore’s leading white-collar and serious crime lawyers, with over 30 years of experience. He regularly advises clients on issues ranging from fraud and corruption to insider trading and market manipulation.
Yong’s expertise in investment funds, cross-border private equity and M&A transactions has earned him recognition. Throughout his practice years across various international firms, he has managed complex fund formation and cross-border investment mandates in the region, including Singapore, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Vietnam, India and China.
Barker, SC, became one of the first female Managing Partners of a major law firm in Singapore when she took over leadership of KhattarWong in 2014. In the same year, she led discussions for a formal alliance with Withers, which led to the formation of Withers KhattarWong.
A pioneer in the legal world, Barker, SC, was one of the first few women to be appointed SC in 2001. Under her leadership, Withers KhattarWong grew its regional footprint while maintaining a leading position in key practices in its home market. The firm’s revenues and profits rose significantly during her 10-year tenure as Managing Partner. Barker, SC, will continue her litigation and arbitration practice as a partner with the firm.
