Simpson, Thacher & Bartlett is planning to open a Boston office, the firm said Wednesday, with the hiring of Kenneth Burdon, a registered funds partner from Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom. The firm is also sending current New York partner Nathan Somogie, another member of its registered funds group, up north to start the office build. 

Simpson said its Boston office “will open later this year,” advising clients on transactional, disputes, regulatory and enforcement needs. The firm added it will counsel Boston clients in asset management and other financial institutions, health care, biotechnology, life sciences and technology.