Cooley is further expanding its global presence with the launch of an office in Singapore. It is the firm’s 16th location worldwide, following openings in Brussels and Hong Kong last year.

'Proven success'

Ferish Patel, partner in charge of the new office, and Matthew Bartus, co-chair of Cooley’s global emerging companies and venture capital practice, who is relocating from Silicon Valley, will serve as the firm’s first resident partners in Singapore.

“Opening an office in Singapore is a milestone in our global growth strategy,” said Joe Conroy, Cooley’s chairman and CEO. “Our arrival is an extension of our decades of proven success in Asia. We are eager to deliver on-the-ground capabilities, and I know that our clients across Southeast Asia, India and beyond will be exceptionally well served by Ferish, Matt and our team.”

Patel, who joined Cooley in July from Gunderson Dettmer, where he had led its Singapore office, said: “This launch reflects Cooley's commitment to match the needs of founders and investors with a full-service firm that is purpose-built for technology and life sciences companies.”

Longtime passion

Before relocating to Singapore, Bartus spent 20 years advising clients in Silicon Valley and is one of the founders of the Cooley GO microsite for entrepreneurs and investors.

“One of Cooley’s longtime passions is helping entrepreneurs succeed,” he said. “This opening is a remarkable opportunity for Cooley to extend that spirit of innovation to an entirely new market.”

He added: “Working together, we are committed to bringing the innovation and collaboration of Silicon Valley, in which I have been so proud to play a role, to this dynamic region.”

Patel and Bartus advise high-growth technology and life sciences companies at all stages of their life cycle, from formation through financings and exits. They guide founders, management teams, investment funds and boards of directors on strategic decision-making, private financings and corporate governance issues, as well as IPOs and M&A matters.