Ex-Swaab Attorneys partner Emanuel Confos has agreed to join Gilbert + Tobin's real estate and projects group.

Confos said he came to the firm after speaking with one of the partners and realising that his construction practice would complement G+T. "I saw an opportunity to join its growing real estate practice and saw the need for it to have construction expertise - that's when I decided to join."

Confos, was also a senior associate at Deacons and has experience in green buildings and sustainability. He previously acted on the Top Ryde Shopping Centre development, Blacktown Westpoint Centre development and refurbishment of properties owned by Investor.

"I've been here for a week now and enjoy the egalitarian culture here. That is a real challenge for firm with as many as 400 people to keep that. I think it is a reflection of the partnership, management and long-serving staff."