Eversheds Sutherland has recruited Zaid Al-Farisi as its Saudi banking and finance head, marking the firm’s third senior hire from King & Spalding in two months. The announcement came on January 27, 2026.
Al-Farisi, a US and English-qualified banking and restructuring partner, joins after nearly three decades of advising clients in Saudi Arabia. He had been with King & Spalding since 2009 and previously served as managing partner of the Confluent Law Group in Baghdad from 2012 to 2014.
His expertise includes Shariah-compliant and conventional financings, advising lenders, borrowers, and sponsors across various transactions in the Kingdom. He also represents debtors and creditors in restructurings and bankruptcy procedures.
Eversheds Sutherland’s Middle East head of corporate finance, Zeid Hannina, stated that Al-Farisi’s arrival significantly advances the firm’s goal of building a leading transactional team in Saudi Arabia and beyond. Hannina pointed to the region’s rapid economic diversification and growing cross-border investments as key drivers for Al-Farisi’s recruitment.
Al-Farisi expressed enthusiasm about joining Eversheds Sutherland, highlighting the firm’s strong domestic and global presence and its reputation in key markets. He aims to provide clients with tailored advice and exceptional service, helping them address opportunities and challenges confidently.
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The firm also announced that Dubai partner Steve Jennings will support its Riyadh corporate presence by collaborating with the local four-associate team. Jennings will continue leading high-profile cross-border mandates across the GCC.
Al-Farisi’s appointment follows the addition of corporate finance specialists Mike Rainey and Asal Saghari as partners in late November 2025. According to the firm, he is the 31st lateral partner hire in the past 12 months, reflecting its growth strategy and commitment to enhancing its market-leading capabilities.
This move highlights Eversheds Sutherland’s emphasis on expanding its corporate finance services globally. The firm has made several strategic hires across its offices in the past year, aligning with its expansion plans.
With Al-Farisi’s expertise in complex financial transactions and deep knowledge of the Saudi market, Eversheds Sutherland is well-positioned to support clients in a region undergoing significant economic changes. According to local reports, his recruitment reinforces the firm’s ability to meet growing demands in this dynamic area.