Seward & Kissel Bolsters Maritime Finance with New Partner Hire
Event summary
- Christopher Belisle joins Seward & Kissel as co-head of maritime finance, marking the third major transportation finance lawyer hire in nine months.
- Belisle specializes in U.S. and cross-border asset-based loan facilities for maritime assets and Jones Act compliance.
- He previously worked at Watson Farley & Williams LLP and reunites with former colleagues Susanne Burstein and John Benson at Seward & Kissel.
- Seward & Kissel has added eight lateral partners across key practice areas following a transformative 2025.
The big picture
Seward & Kissel's strategic hiring spree in maritime finance reflects the growing complexity of cross-border asset-based lending and regulatory compliance in the sector. The firm's focus on expanding its transportation finance capabilities aligns with broader industry trends toward specialization in niche financial services. With eight lateral partner additions in 2025 and continued growth in 2026, Seward & Kissel is positioning itself as a dominant player in maritime and transportation finance.
What we're watching
- Practice Expansion
- How Seward & Kissel's rapid hiring in maritime finance will affect its competitive positioning against firms like Watson Farley & Williams.
- Regulatory Focus
- Whether Belisle's expertise in Jones Act compliance will drive more cross-border maritime finance deals.
- Team Dynamics
- The pace at which Belisle, Burstein, and Benson can integrate their decades-long collaboration into Seward & Kissel's existing framework.