Law firm Linklaters has named Gilly Hutchinson as head of ESG regional development in Asia, based in the firm’s Hong Kong office.

Hutchinson has over 10 years’ experience advising on energy and infrastructure projects in Asia, most recently in Linklaters’ energy and infrastructure practice. Prior to this, she worked as a senior policy adviser in the UK government’s department of energy and climate change, where her role included providing analysis and advice to ministers on the strategic direction of the government’s energy and climate-change policy.

Linklaters has a robust understanding of the regulatory and policy drivers of the market and experience across the full spectrum of environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues: from climate change and resource efficiency, human rights and community engagement, anti-bribery and corruption to transparency and disclosure, product governance and risk management.

ESG awareness has increased in Asian markets in the last few years, and with the pace of change expected to continue to gain momentum over the next 12 months, Hutchinson’s appointment, Linklaters says, responds to the increasing client demand for discussions on ESG issues and related advice.

“Changes in societal expectations, public intolerance of corporate governance failures and the increasing focus on climate change and other environmental impacts are transforming investor focus in respect of company performance,” comments Rob Elliot, corporate partner, Linklaters. “Walking the talk and strategic alignment with ESG goals are now critical to unlocking new investment opportunities, strengthening business relationships, sustaining returns and attracting and retaining talent. Recognising how ESG will have a wide-ranging impact across our client base, we saw the need for a dedicated role focused on ESG here in Asia.”