14 May 2026 | Firm News | Article by Ioan Prydderch

Hugh James strengthens real estate finance team with appointment of new Partner


We have strengthened our real estate finance offering with the appointment of David Marshall as Partner and Head of Real Estate Finance.

Based in our Cardiff office, David will work closely with colleagues across the Commercial Property and Banking and Finance teams to support clients on complex lending and property transactions.

David joins the firm with over 20 years’ experience in real estate finance, having advised a broad range of lenders including major high street banks and specialist funders on both development and investment finance transactions.

He has significant expertise in all aspects of real estate finance and has acted on a number of high-value and complex transactions throughout his career. His appointment reflects our continued investment in our commercial property and banking capabilities, further strengthening our ability to provide a fully integrated service to clients.

The news comes as we continue to expand our footprint in London following our acquisition of Howat Avraam Solicitors, and after our Banking and Finance team secured reappointment to Metro Bank’s legal panel via competitive tender.

Speaking on David’s recent appointment, Peter Hurn, Partner and Head of Commercial Property said:

“David’s appointment marks a significant addition to our Commercial Property team and reflects our continued focus on strengthening our real estate offering. His depth of experience in real estate finance, particularly acting for a wide range of lenders on complex development and investment transactions, adds further strength to our practice.

“We are seeing an increasing demand in the Real Estate Finance sector as lenders, developers and investors continue to navigate a more complex funding environment. David’s expertise enhances our ability to deliver a fully integrated service. He will play a key role in supporting the continued growth of our team and in developing our real estate finance capability, and we are delighted to welcome him to the firm.”

Following on from Peter’s comments, Dominic Marshall, Partner and Head of Banking and Finance added:

“David is very well known and highly regarded in the local market, with a strong track record of advising major lenders on complex real estate finance transactions. His appointment represents an important step in the continued growth of our Banking and Finance practice.

“Bringing David on board to head up our Real Estate Finance team strengthens our ability to support clients on the full spectrum of lending transactions, particularly those with a significant property element. His experience and market reputation will be invaluable as we continue to develop our offering and work closely with our commercial property colleagues to deliver a seamless, joined-up service.”

Reflecting on his appointment, David Marshall said:

“I am delighted to be joining Hugh James at an exciting time for the firm. The strength of its Commercial Property and Banking teams, combined with its clear strategic direction, presents a fantastic opportunity to further develop its real estate finance offering. I look forward to working collaboratively across the firm to support clients on complex and high-value transactions.”

Author bio

Ioan Prydderch

Partner
Ioan is head of the firm’s business services division, which comprises all of the teams which provide transactional, contractual, advisory and dispute resolution advice to businesses and organisations. He has extensive experience in the construction and engineering sector and has acted in a number of high value and complicated disputes.

Disclaimer: The information on the Hugh James website is for general information only and reflects the position at the date of publication. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be treated as such. If you would like to ensure the commentary reflects current legislation, case law or best practice, please contact the blog author.

 

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