TOKYO, February 3, 2025: Bolstering the firm’s domestic and cross-border real estate finance capabilities, Morgan Lewis welcomes partners Gerald “Jerry” Fujii and Naoki Ueyama to its Tokyo office. Arriving from Withers, Jerry and Naoki will continue to focus on real estate transactions and multi-focused financing—including green financing—with both having advised on the first green loan and sustainability-linked loan used to finance data center development in Japan.
“At a time when Japan's real estate sector is showing sustained growth—buoyed by enduring low interest rates—and increased interest from global investors, the addition of these two talented lawyers will help us better guide our clients through emerging opportunities and risks,” said Firm Chair Jami McKeon. “With stellar reputations across the real estate finance market, Jerry and Naoki will add immediate depth to our platform, expand existing relationships, and allow seamless collaboration across our offices throughout the United States, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.”
Jerry is a Chambers-rated registered foreign lawyer in Japan and is also licensed in California. He handles domestic and cross-border real estate transactions and corporate and international finance on behalf of real estate investment funds, real estate investment trusts (REITs), sovereign wealth funds, and real estate lenders.
Naoki is a Chambers-rated Bengoshi who advises on real estate, real estate finance, structured finance, and acquisition finance transactions. He regularly acts as lead counsel for Japanese and international investors and financial institutions in real estate investments, and as legal counsel for investment funds and financial organizations.
“Complementing our strong, well-established corporate and business transactions team and creating natural synergies with our Tokyo investment management practice, Jerry and Naoki enhance our suite of services, helping clients capitalize on investment opportunities in Japan and internationally—including both inbound and outbound transactions,” said Christina Melendi, leader of the firm’s global corporate and business transactions practice. “Their sophisticated market knowledge and established track record will quickly bolster our team’s value in serving our clients’ real estate needs in Tokyo, Japan, and beyond.”
“Our Tokyo corporate practice works closely with our international colleagues to advise clients hailing from around the world. Jerry and Naoki’s deep knowledge of Japan’s legal framework and cross-border experience will enhance our ability to help clients achieve their business objectives—wherever those objectives take shape,” said Carol Tsuchida, managing partner of the Tokyo office. “I’ve known Jerry and Naoki personally for years, and I’m thrilled to welcome them to our team and look forward to collaborating with them as colleagues as we continue to provide exceptional service to our clients.”