Harney Westwood & Riegels, the offshore international law firm, has strengthened its presence in Latin America with the appointment of a permanent representative in Brazil.

Brazilian lawyer Maria Buchi, who latterly served as in-house counsel at Triscorp Investimentos and Opus Gestao de Recursos, has been appointed to head the firm’s business development in Brazil.

In her new role Buchi will be based in Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, and will focus on developing Harneys’ relationships with clients and the Brazilian business community. She will also work towards developing the firm’s brand and business in Brazil.

Her role will also include assisting the firm in developing relationships in Miami, New York and other regions of the world where the Latin American market is serviced. 

Buchi joins the firm six months after the launch of its Montevideo office.

Harney Westwood & Riegels provides services relating to the British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Cyprus and Anguilla. It also has offices in London, Hong Kong and Montevideo.