Contributors
International law firm Womble Bond Dickinson (WBD) has appointed experienced real estate lawyer Andrew Yates as Head of Living Capital in London.
Andrew is a recognised market leader in the Living sector, with particular expertise in complex development, residential investment, regeneration, thought leadership, and leading multi-disciplinary teams. He has advised clients on the financing, acquisition and delivery of some of the UK's most significant BTR schemes.
Consistently rated as a "leading individual" by Legal 500, Andrew joins WBD's London office following previous roles at Pinsent Masons, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner, and most recently, DLA Piper. He brings with him a unique international reputation in the Living sector.
His appointment strengthens the ongoing growth of WBD’s Real Estate team and further elevates the firm’s Living practice which continues to be one of its key strategic priorities. He joins a London Living team alongside Partner Bela Zavery, who has already spearheaded their advice on some of the city’s most ambitious regeneration and residential projects. He will be supporting the continued expansion of the London office, adding significantly to its reputation for navigating high‑profile developments and its ability to serve both domestic and overseas clients.
Tom Willows, national head of WBD's Living practice, said:
"Living is one of our key Real Estate growth areas in London and Andrew’s appointment will help position Womble Bond Dickinson for further expansion, reinforcing our brand as a leading adviser to the Living sector nationally and internationally. For many years, Andrew has been at the forefront of build-to-rent thought leadership, bringing new UK institutional and overseas investment into the sector.
An expert in complex urban development, he has overseen large‑scale public/private joint ventures and guided well-known investors as they entered the residential market. We’re delighted to welcome him to the firm.”
Andrew added:
"I’m thrilled to be joining Womble Bond Dickinson at such an exciting point in the firm’s growth. Bela and the team are already doing exceptional work across the capital and the Living sector is evolving rapidly. WBD has built an outstanding reputation and has great opportunities to expand its transatlantic links. At a time when developers are navigating complex challenges around building safety and viability, and investors are increasingly focused on single-family and mid-market housing, WBD is uniquely positioned for the next stage of the cycle. I’m looking forward to helping further strengthen and expand this offering to support investors, lenders, developers and public sector partners in delivering high‑quality places to live.”
