Private equity firm Hg is facing a £10m equal pay lawsuit brought by a former senior employee, in a rare public employment dispute involving one of Europe’s largest technology-focused buyout firms, according to a report by Bloomberg.

The Auréa Group, a specialist private equity firm focused on beauty, wellness and longevity, has appointed Aparna Aiyar as partner, strengthening the group’s leadership and expertise in the consumer sector.

Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP has appointed Payom Pirahesh as a partner in its private equity practice, based in Los Angeles. He brings experience advising private equity funds, asset managers, and other stakeholders on complex corporate transactions.

Dechert LLP has appointed Jarlath Pratt as a partner in its corporate and securities practice group in London. He brings over 20 years of experience in both private practice and as managing director and assistant general counsel within a global institutional investor.

Blackstone is planning to expand its headcount across Asia as it looks to capitalise on growing demand for private market products, according to a report by Bloomberg citing Ed Huang, head of Asia Pacific private wealth at the firm.

British Columbia Investment Management has appointed Jon Salon as global head of private equity, based in New York. He succeeds Jim Pittman, who will leave the organisation at the end of the month, according to a report by Bloomberg.

Partners Capital, a global investment firm with over $70bn AUM on behalf of endowments, foundations, family offices, and high net worth individuals, has made seven promotions to its senior leadership team – three Partners and four Managing Directors.

HighPost Capital, a private investment firm focused on companies in the consumer behaviour, service, sports, media and technology sectors, has promoted David Weston to Senior Managing Director, HighPost Buyout/Late-Stage Growth Fund.

Bain Capital has appointed David Gross as its sole managing partner, completing a long-planned leadership transition at the $215bn private capital group, according to a report by the Financial Times citing a letter sent to investors this week.