Burness Paull hires expert hotels specialist

Burness Paull has made a significant move in bolstering its partner ranks by acquiring hotels and student accommodation specialist Roland Smyth, who joins the firm as a partner. This strategic hire comes as part of the firm's ongoing commitment to enhancing the growth of its market-leading real estate team. With qualifications in both Scots and English law, Smyth brings a wealth of experience in commercial real estate, having earned a strong reputation for his expertise in the hospitality and student accommodation sectors.

Smyth previously led the Scottish hotels and leisure team at CMS, making his transition to Burness Paull particularly relevant for the firm’s ambitions. His arrival is poised to further strengthen Burness Paull’s existing cross-practice sector team, which integrates experts across real estate, finance, corporate and M&A, employment, tax, and technology & commercial sectors. This diverse group collaborates on significant hotel and student accommodation developments, sales, and financings, ensuring comprehensive guidance for clients.

The client roster at Burness Paull includes prominent names such as Marriott, Virgin Hotels, Sheraton Hotels, and many others, solidifying the firm’s strong position in these sectors. Peter Chambers, head of real estate at Burness Paull, remarked “We have advised alongside Roland on a number of transactions and recognise his excellence as a lawyer, strong commercial focus, and his ability to build enduring client relationships.” He emphasized the importance of the hospitality and student accommodation sectors in driving investment in the Scottish and UK economy.

Mark Ellis, the managing partner at Burness Paull, also highlighted the strategic importance of acquiring top talent, stating “Attracting top talent who can provide the high-quality advice our clients expect is key to our growth strategy.” He underscored Smyth’s reputation as a highly regarded legal adviser in these dynamic sectors, which the firm views as having considerable growth potential.

Reflecting on his move, Roland Smyth expressed enthusiasm about his new role, saying “The team at Burness Paull have a well-founded reputation for the quality of their advice and are regularly instructed on high-value and complex commercial real estate deals. I was particularly attracted to their hotel and student accommodation offering, which is second to none.” His eagerness to collaborate with his new colleagues demonstrates a commitment to achieving positive outcomes for clients in this competitive market. With Smyth on board, Burness Paull is well-positioned to reinforce its standing as a leader in the hospitality and student accommodation sectors.