With the aim of growing its aviation finance practice, Vinson & Elkins has opened an office in Dublin.
New York partner David Berkery, a Dublin native who joined V&E in 2022, is returning to his hometown to lead the new office with associates Kim Dalrymple and Sarah McCann.
Home to a 13th Century castle, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, St. Stephen’s Green, the iconic Guinness brewery, and more than 30 aircraft leasing companies, Dublin is the largest global hub for aircraft leasing. Approximately 60 percent of the world’s leased aircraft are managed through Ireland, according to the Irish Business and Employers Confederation.
Berkery represents Dublin-based firms AerCap and Castlelake. He said in a statement that Dublin deserves a specialist on the ground and that he is “immensely proud of the commitment and foresight Vinson & Elkins has shown in making this investment.”
V&E Chair Keith Fullenweider said the firm has a “rich history and established reputation for working with clients and their financing partners throughout the transportation industry.
“Our expansion into Dublin strengthens our ability to serve clients in the aviation sector, further reinforcing the firm’s core strengths and commitment to supporting key infrastructure sectors that drive economic growth,” he added.
The Dublin office is Houston-based V&E’s 12th worldwide.