The Johannesburg office of Baker & McKenzie has confirmed the appointment of a private equity partner to its ever growing roster.

Scott Nelson joins the firm from domestic rival ENSafrica, where he had headed up the Africa practice group since 2009.

Nelson, who is qualified in Scotland and England and Wales, is a private equity specialist focuses on funds active on the African continent, he also has extensive experience of deals in Europe and the US. Nelson has been brought in to help drive the firm's offering in the burgeoning private equity sector in Africa.

His recent work includes assisting Helios Investment Partners with an equity disposal and representing Emerging Capital Partners with its investment in Remetix Holdings.

This is the second addition to the South African team at Baker & McKenzie in as many months, with competition lawyer Nick Altini joining from Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr in February. The firm's recent growth highlights a growing trend as the market becomes more and more influenced by its international firms.