Francisco Rey has joined the Blackstone Group’s corporate advisory group as a senior managing director. He will be located in the firm’s London office focusing on the European communications industry and help expand the group’s practice in the Middle East and Asia.

Before joining Blackstone, Rey worked at Merrill Lynch heading its technology, media and telecom practice for Southern and Eastern Europe and the Middle East.

John Studzinski, senior managing director, said: “We are delighted to have someone of Francisco’s stature and experience join our Corporate Advisory team. He brings valuable expertise to the firm’s growing international advisory group.”