Morgan Lewis Welcomes Jerry Fujii and Naoki Ueyama to Tokyo Office.
Morgan Lewis is excited to announce the addition of two highly esteemed partners, Gerald “Jerry” Fujii and Naoki Ueyama, to its Tokyo office. Both bring a wealth of expertise in real estate transactions and diverse financing options, including green financing, to further strengthen the firm's capabilities in the region.
Previously with Withers, Jerry and Naoki have been instrumental in advising on landmark transactions in Japan, such as the country's inaugural green loan and sustainability-linked loan for data center development. Their impressive track record and specialized knowledge will enhance Morgan Lewis’ ability to navigate Japan’s growing real estate sector, which is seeing sustained growth due to low interest rates and increased global investor interest.
Firm Chair Jami McKeon expressed excitement over the new additions: “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. 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, a registered foreign lawyer in Japan and a licensed attorney in California, has been recognised by Chambers for his expertise in both domestic and international real estate transactions. His experience spans corporate and international finance, and he regularly represents real estate investment funds, REITs, sovereign wealth funds, and real estate lenders.
Naoki, rated by Chambers as a Bengoshi, is a leading figure in real estate finance, structured finance, and acquisition finance. He has a wealth of experience advising both Japanese and international investors, financial institutions, investment funds, and financial organizations involved in real estate investments.
Christina Melendi, leader of the firm’s global corporate and business transactions practice, highlighted the strategic benefit of their appointments: “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. 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.”
Carol Tsuchida, managing partner of the Tokyo office, also expressed enthusiasm about their arrival: “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. 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.”
The addition of Jerry and Naoki underscores Morgan Lewis' commitment to bolstering its real estate finance practice and expanding its presence in the global marketplace, especially as the real estate sector in Japan continues to attract international interest.
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP is a global law firm founded in 1873, with offices across the U.S., Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The firm offers a wide range of legal services, including corporate, litigation, labor and employment, intellectual property, and regulatory law. Known for its strategic counsel and practical solutions, Morgan Lewis serves diverse clients, including multinational corporations, financial institutions, and governments. The firm is committed to innovation, collaboration, and delivering exceptional service to meet clients’ evolving needs.
