Clark Hill Strengthens International Capabilities with Nicole Janigian Simonian, Clif Burns, Jackson Pai and Extended Team of Global Professionals

August 19, 2026 — Clark Hill is pleased to announce that Nicole Janigian Simonian, Clif Burns and Jackson Pai have joined the firm, expanding its International Law, Trade, and Transaction practice. Simonian joins the firm in Los Angeles as Chair of the Global Supply Chain Practice and International Global Mobility Lead. Burns (Washington, DC) and Pai (Los Angeles) are joining as Senior Counsels, adding their multi-faceted experience focused on legal compliance in moving goods, services, and people across borders. The team, with several professionals joining them, has worked together for more than 20 years, counseling a range of clients from Fortune 100 and major publicly traded companies and private equity and portfolio companies to entrepreneurs expanding globally and humanitarian organizations providing aid in conflict zones.

“Nicole, Clif, and Jackson bring tremendous talent, extensive international experience, and a collaborative approach that align perfectly with Clark Hill’s culture and strategic priorities,” said John Hensien, CEO of Clark Hill. “Their addition strengthens our growing presence on the West Coast and further expands our internationally recognized Trade practice, both of which are key components of our long-term vision. As legal and regulatory complexity continues to evolve on a national and global scale, their experience enhances our ability to serve clients wherever they do business.”

Simonian, with 25-plus years of experience, takes a holistic approach to a range of international compliance and regulatory matters, including cross border transactions, international trade, international employment and global mobility, investigations, and supply chain mapping. Her ability to assess and navigate compliance risks on a global scale, particularly in a turbulent geopolitical environment, has made her a sought-after international lawyer for her clients. Simonian, who has earned multiple honors in recognition of her top-tier legal services, serves on the board of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, co-chairing the Global Initiative Council.

“Nicole’s arrival further strengthens Clark Hill’s distinct offering within the legal industry,” said Mark Ludwikowski, leader of Clark Hill’s International Trade practice. “Few firms, if any, bring together a team that understands the intersection between trade, transactions, compliance and human capital. Together with Clif and Jackson, this team’s deep experience complements our ability to provide clients with seamless and business-minded guidance in an increasingly complex global economy.”

Clif Burns and Jackson Pai contribute importantly to the firm’s growing international offerings. Burns is a highly respected international trade attorney whose practice includes export controls, economic sanctions, CFIUS, and the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. Burns was an adjunct professor at Georgetown Law Center for seven years and is frequently quoted by major media on export control and economic sanctions issues.

Pai was the first legal advisor to Taiwan’s delegation to the World Trade Organization from 2002 to 2006. His practice covers market expansion, global mobility and international employment, international corporate transactions, outsourcing and restructuring, customs, and international trade policy. Active in bar association and community organizations, Pai currently serves as Co-Chair of the International Employment Committee of the American Bar Association’s International Law Section and Co-Chair of the LGBTQ+ Network of the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association.