Regularly working with some of world’s most prestigious private equity firms, Kirkland & Ellis LLP continues to be a powerhouse in the US market, advising on substantial takeovers, investments and disposals across a multitude of sectors. Based in Chicago, Jon Ballis’ extensive expertise is sought after by a range of high-end financial sponsors, while Richard Campbell, also based in Chicago, has recently advised on multi-billion-dollar investments in alternative credit managers, investment management firms, and packaging solutions providers. New York’s Srinivas Kaushik and Peter Martelli handle complex domestic and cross-border M&A and leveraged buyouts, while Los Angeles’ Hamed Meshki has played a key role in advising Oaktree Capital Management on several highly structured acquisitions and disposals. Jennifer Perkins and Sanford Perl are based in New York and Chicago respectively and are noted for their broad sector coverage, with the latter also recognised for his venture capital and growth equity practice. Michael Weisser acts on a number of deals for TPG from New York, including investments in the food and beverage sector and major tech disposals. San Francisco's Sean Kramer and New York’s Maggie Flores also come recommended. Claire Campbell joined in July 2024.
Private equity buyouts: large deals ($500m+) in United States
Kirkland & Ellis LLP
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Jon Ballis; Richard Campbell; Srinivas Kaushik; Peter Martelli; Hamed Meshki; Jennifer Perkins; Sanford Perl; Michael Weisser; Sean Kramer; Maggie Flores; Claire Campbell; Carolyn Vardi
Referenzen
‘The leadership of this group and the skill set of the team are excellent. They are business minded and thoughtful about navigating the company through the options available.’
Kernmandanten
Apax Partners
Ares Management
Bain Capital Private Equity
BC Partners
Blackstone Inc.
Brookfield Asset Management
Blue Owl Capital
The Carlyle Group
Clayton, Dubilier & Rice
Francisco Partners
GTCR
The Jordan Company
KKR
Madison Dearborn Partners
Oaktree Capital Management
Summit Partners
TA Associates
Thoma Bravo
TPG
Vista Equity Partners
Latham & Watkins LLP
Latham & Watkins LLP provides strategic counsel on complex cross-border transactions, regulatory challenges, and financing structures, leveraging its integrated M&A, capital markets, and tax expertise to deliver top-tier counsel. Team head Paul Kukish serves as a key advisor to investment firms such as LGP and Odyssey, recently leading SRS Distribution’s $18.25bn sale to The Home Depot. Co-head Alex Kelly is active across multiple sectors, advising on public and private M&A in infrastructure, technology, and retail. Kristen Grannis has played a crucial role in expanding the firm’s private equity offering in Boston and is highly regarded for her growth equity and venture capital expertise. David Allinson handles leveraged buyouts, take-privates, carve-outs, and joint ventures, with recent work for the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board. David Beller is widely recognised for his leveraged buyout expertise. Paul Sheridan, noted for his work with Carlyle and Onex, is another key figure in leveraged buyouts. Matthew Cohn joined from Kirkland & Ellis LLP in July 2024, strengthening the Boston practice, while Justin Rosenberg arrived from Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP in April 2024, bringing additional public and private M&A expertise. Eric Press, who joined from Apollo in February 2024, is valued for his in-house funds knowledge. Meanwhile, Neal Reenan and Ian Bushner departed in March 2024, Tana Ryan and Navneeta Rekhi in July 2024, Eric Schwarzman in January 2024, and Justin Hamill in May 2025.
Praxisleiter:
Paul Kukish; Alex Kelly
Weitere Kernanwälte:
David Allinson; David Beller; Paul Sheridan; Matthew Cohn; Justin Rosenberg; Eric Press; Kristen Grannis
Kernmandanten
Apollo Global Management
ArcLight Capital
Ares Management
Ares Management
Bridgepoint Advisers Limited
CPP Investments
CVC Advisors
Global Infrastructure Partners
Hg Capital
HPS Investment Partners
Hunter Point Capital
KKR & Co.
Leonard Green & Partners
One Rock Capital
Onex Partners
Permira
Platinum Equity
Silver Lake Partners
The Carlyle Group
TPG
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised SRS Distribution, a portfolio company of Leonard Green & Partners and Berkshire Partners and the leading distributor in the US in each of the residential roofing, landscape, and pool supply markets, in its US$18.25 billion dollar sale to The Home Depot.
- Advised Silver Lake in its completed US$9.2 billion equity investment alongside investment vehicles managed by DigitalBridge Group in Vantage Data Centres.
- Advised Permira on its US$6.9 billion take-private acquisition of Squarespace, the design-driven platform helping entrepreneurs build brands and businesses online.
Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP
Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP advises leading private equity firms on complex buyouts, investments, and exits, offering strategic counsel across M&A, financing, and regulatory matters. Team head Matthew W. Abbott remains a key advisor to General Atlantic, overseeing acquisitions across the infrastructure, financial services, and technology sectors. Co-head Angelo Bonvino is frequently instructed by financial sponsors such as KPS Capital Partners, Oak Hill Capital, and Kohlberg & Co, while Ted Ackerman advises on a broad range of transactions, including acquisitions, strategic partnerships, carve-outs, and equity financings. Ellen Ching’s considerable sector breadth—spanning healthcare, hospitality, and shipping—coupled with her expertise in leveraged buyouts and investments, makes her a trusted adviser to a strong roster of sponsors and funds. Ross Fieldston, a key advisor to Apollo, has recently been active on high-profile take-private transactions, while Brian C. Lavin is noted for his skill in public and private M&A, leveraged buyouts, and joint ventures. Cullen Sinclair and Sarah Stasny also come recommended. Strengthening the practice further, Matt Collin, David Hepp, and Nick Olson joined from Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP in August 2024. All lawyers mentioned are in New York.
Praxisleiter:
Matt Abbott; Angelo Bonvino
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Ted Ackerman; Ellen Ching; Ross Fieldston; Brian Lavin; Cullen Sinclair; Sarah Stasny; Matt Collin; David Hepp; Nick Olson
Kernmandanten
Ares Management Corporation
Apollo Global Management
Brookfield Asset Management
Carlyle Group
Charlesbank Capital Partners
Davidson Kempner Capital Management
EQT Partners
FalconPoint Partners
Five Arrows
Flexpoint Ford
General Atlantic
Golden Gate Capital
Kohlberg & Co.
KPS Capital Partners
Madison Dearborn Partners
Oak Hill Capital
OceanSound Partners
Roark Capital Group
TPG Capital
Trivest Partners
Highlight-Mandate
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP advises private equity firms on fund formation, acquisitions, investment structuring, financing, and exit transactions. The firm handles complex buyouts, growth investments, and strategic M&A, providing legal expertise across regulatory, tax, and transactional matters. Marni Lerner leads the team in New York, drawing on a broad skill set to advise private equity firms such as KKR, Charlesbank, and Integrum on multi-billion-dollar acquisitions and investments. Co-head Elizabeth Cooper remains a key adviser to Blackstone, Silver Lake, and New Mountain Capital, recently overseeing transactions across the healthcare, retail, media and entertainment, and professional services sectors. Atif Azher is recognised for his expertise in public and private M&A, bolstering his transactional practice with strength in corporate governance and financial advisory matters. Anthony Vernace, another key adviser to Blackstone, is noted for his sector-spanning capabilities and ability to handle high-stakes domestic and cross-border M&A. Naveed Anwar and Michael Holick represent a range of financial sponsors and their portfolio companies on acquisitions, investments, and disposals, while Sven Mickisch joined from Skadden in March 2024. The team saw several departures in 2024, with Sebastian Tiller departing in October, Justin Rosenberg, in April, and Jihyun Chung in June.
Praxisleiter:
Marni Lerner; Elizabeth Cooper
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Atif Azher; Anthony Vernace; Naveed Anwar; Michael Holick; Sven Mickisch
Kernmandanten
Advent
AEA Investors
Angeles Equity
Apax Partners
Apollo Global Management
Atairos Group
Bayview Asset Management
BC Partners
BlackRock
Blackstone
Bridgepoint Group
Brookfield Asset Management
Butterfly Equity
Calera Capital
The Carlyle Group
Centerbridge
Charlesbank Capital Partners
Corsair Capital
CVC Capital Partners
DigitalBridge
EQT Partners
Genstar
Global Infrastructure Partners
Goldman Sachs Asset Management
GTCR
Hellman & Friedman
IFM Investors
Integrum
KKR
KSL Capital Partners
Lindsay Goldberg
New Mountain Capital
Portfolio Advisors
Primavera Capital Group
Riverstone Holdings
Silver Lake Partners
Sixth Street
Sterling Partners
Stonecroft Management
Stonepeak Partners
Stone Point Capital
TCV
TPG
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised Blackstone in its acquisition of a majority stake in Emerson’s Climate Technologies business.
- Advised KKR in its acquisition of Broadcom Inc.’s End-User Computing Division.
- Advised TPG Rise Climate in its acquisitions of AmSpec and MIRATECH.
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton advises private equity sponsors, sovereign wealth funds, and institutional investors on fund formation, M&A, financing, and exits. The firm provides integrated legal counsel across tax, antitrust, capital markets, and regulatory matters, handling complex global transactions. Team head David Leinwand is a key relationship partner to Warburg Pincus, recently overseeing several transactions in the software and digital infrastructure space. John Kupiec has a strong track record advising on complex, cross-border M&A and is well versed in energy, retail and consumer products-oriented work Matthew Salerno is regularly engaged on public and private M&A, as well as growth equity investments, while Paul Shim is experienced on substantial global carve-outs. Paul Imperatore has a growing practice that includes significant software, engineering and insurance deals. James Hu joined from White & Case LLP in March 2024. Nickolas Bogdanovich left the firm in August 2024.
Praxisleiter:
David Leinwand
Weitere Kernanwälte:
John Kupiec; Matthew Salerno; Paul Shim; Paul Imperatore; James Hu
Kernmandanten
Warburg Pincus
The Carlyle Group
Sixth Street
Brookfield Asset Management
TPG Capital
Blackstone
Sequoia Capital
Viking Global Investors
Wafra, Inc
Temasek Holdings Ltd
Mubadala
Abu Dhabi Investment Authority
Altaris Capital
Cascade Asset Management Company
WK Kellogg Foundation Trust
Advent International
GTCR
Paradigm
Berkshire Partners
Canyon Partners
Duravant
Internet Brands
Allied Universal
Norges Bank
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented Warburg Pincus in its acquisitions and financings of Service Express Inc. and Redwood Software and in its investment in CData Software, Inc.
- Rrepresented Sixth Street in its acquisition of Enstar Group Limited in a transaction, representing a total equity value of $5.1 billion
- Advised W.K. Kellogg Foundation Trust, Kellanova’s largest stockholder, in Mars’ announced $35.9 billion acquisition of Kellanova.
Debevoise & Plimpton LLP
Debevoise & Plimpton LLP provides comprehensive legal counsel to private equity clients, covering M&A, fund transactions, leveraged finance, tax, and regulatory matters. The firm advises on complex buyouts, strategic investments, and fund restructurings, offering integrated, cross-border expertise. Practice chair Kevin Schmidt is a highly experienced advisor who frequently handles big-ticket acquisitions and disposals for leading firms and their portfolio companies. Paul Bird has most recently advised on acquisitions and investments in the healthcare, insurance and construction sectors. Kevin Rinker is routinely engaged on multi-billion dollar buyouts, particularly for longstanding client Clayton, Dubilier & Rice, while Jennifer Chu acts on significant market mergers and strategic partnerships. Uri Herzberg’s key clients include Clayton, Dubilier & Rice, HarbourVest, Morgan Stanley Capital Partners, and Stone Point Capital. Christopher Anthony and Spencer Gilbert both come recommended for their skill in public and private M&A, investments, and joint ventures. Gordon Moodie joined in late 2024.
Praxisleiter:
Kevin Schmidt
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Paul Bird; Kevin Rinker; Jennifer Chu; Uri Herzberg; Christopher Anthony; Spencer Gilbert; Gordon Moodie
Referenzen
‘Knowledgeable, practical, good sense of market, strategic and culturally aligned.’
‘Kevin Schmidt – hard worker, relentless. Uri Herzberg – genius. Incredibly smart. Creative. Kevin Rinker – the real deal. Paul Bird – the best in the business.’
‘Work largely seamlessly with our other advisors (e.g. financial diligence, specialist regulatory counsel, etc.).’
Kernmandanten
The Blackstone Group
Brookfield
Canada Pension Plan Investment Board
The Carlyle Group
Cerberus Capital Management
Clayton, Dubilier & Rice
Elliott Investment Management
Kelso & Company
Morgan Stanley Capital Partners
Providence Equity Partners
Stone Point Capital
Temasek Holdings Limited
TPG
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised Clayton, Dubilier & Rice in its acquisition, together with Stone Point Capital and co-investors, of Truist Insurance Holdings, a subsidiary of Truist Financial Corporation and the fifth largest insurance broker in the United States, at an enterprise value of $15.5 billion.
- Advised Windstream Holdings in its merger with Uniti Group, resulting in a combined public company that will be owned approximately 62% by Uniti stockholders and 38% by Windstream equity holders.
- Advised Clayton, Dubilier & Rice in its acquisition, together with TowerBrook Capital Partners, of R1 RCM Inc., at an enterprise value of $8.9 billion.
Ropes & Gray LLP
Ropes & Gray LLP provides comprehensive legal counsel to private equity firms, advising on M&A, fund structuring, financing, and regulatory challenges. David Blittner leads the team from New York and is highly experienced in leveraged buyouts, investments, and divestitures for major private equity firms. Julie Jones, who continues to chair the firm from New York and Boston alongside vice-chair and fellow private equity adviser Neill Jakobe, has been a longstanding adviser to TPG, handling acquisitions and investments across multiple sectors. William Shields has recently taken the lead on significant transactions for Bain Capital alongside Charlie Boer in Boston. Boston’s Taylor Hart and Chicago’s Matthew Richards are also noted for their transactional expertise, while Boston’s Michael Lee co-heads the firm’s global finance practice group.
Praxisleiter:
Paul Blittner
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Julie Jones; Neill Jakobe; William Shields; Charlie Boer; Taylor Hart; Matthew Richards; Michael Lee
Kernmandanten
Advent International
Altamont Capital Partners
American Industrial Partners
Aquiline Capital Partners
Audax Group
Avista Healthcare Partners
Bain Capital
Berkshire Partners
Blackstone
CCMP Capital Advisors
Charlesbank Capital Partners
CIVC Partners
Dragoneer Investment Group
EQT
Francisco Partners
Genstar Capital
GHO Capital Partners
GI Partners
Harvest Partners
H.I.G. Capital
Kohlberg & Co
Lee Equity Partners
New Mountain Capital
Patient Square Capital
Partners Group
Silver Lake
TA Associates
Thomas H Lee Partners
TPG Capital
TSG Consumer Partners
Highlight-Mandate
Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP
Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP leverages a deciated private equity team across the US, Europe and Asia to provide comprehensive counsel to global funds and their portfolio companies. Doug Warner leads the team from New York and is the key relationship partner to many of the firm’s most high-profile sponsor clients, bringing extensive transactional expertise to domestic and cross-border acquisitions and disposals. Co-head Kyle Krpata, based in Silicon Valley, is well-placed to advise on significant deals in the tech and manufacturing sectors, while New York co-head Christopher Machera is widely recognised for his expertise in leveraged buyouts. Based in Boston, co-head Ramona Nee continues to lead multiple high-value acquisitions for clients such as Advent, Providence, and TruArc. New York’s Timothy Burns is noted for his skill in public and private M&A, take-privates, and recapitalisations. Nicholas Doloresco is active on extensive tech sector deals from Silicon Valley, whereas Jenna McBain is frequently instructed on infrastructure and energy transactions from New York. Jakub Wronski also comes recommended, operating from Boston. The team saw several key lateral hires in 2024, with Jacqui Bogucki joining from Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP in April, Luke Laumann arriving from White & Case LLP in September, and Navneeta Rekhi and Tana Ryan making the move from Latham & Watkins LLP in July.
Praxisleiter:
Doug Warner; Kyle Krpata; Christopher Machera; Ramona Nee
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Timothy Burns; Nicholas Doloresco; Jenna McBain; Jakub Wronski; Jacqui Bogucki; Luke Laumann; Navneeta Rekhi; Tana Ryan
Kernmandanten
Advaya Capital
Advent International
American Securities
Antero Midstream Corporation
Antin Infrastructure Partners
Apollo NoArcosa, Inc.
Ardian NoAstorg Partners
Aterian Investment Partners
Avista Capital Partners
Bain Capital
Battalion Oil Corporation
BCI NoBlackstone
Blue Star Innovation Partners, L.P.
Brookfield
CD&R
Centerbridge
Citation Capital
Coatue
Cobham Group Limited
Contango Resources, LLC
Cornell Capital
Cove Hill Partners
CPP Investments
CVC
EQT
Galvanize Climate Solutions LLC
Genstar Capital
GHK Capital Partners
Giant Eagle, Inc.
Goldman Sachs & Co.
Greater Sum Ventures
GrowthCurve Capital
H.I.G. Capital
IMTT Holdings LLC
Kainos Capital LP
KSL Capital Partners
Lee Equity Partners
Linden Capital
Montagu
Motive Partners
Neos Partners
Nexa Equity
NRDC Equity Partners
Oak Hill Capital
Oaktree Capital
OMERS
Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan
Pacific Avenue Capital Partners, LLC
PAI Partners
Parthenon Capital
Permira Advisers
Providence Equity Partners
PSG
PSP Investments
Rangeland Energy
Reservoir Capital
Searchlight Capital Partners, L.P.
Softbank
Stripes Group, LLC
Sumeru Equity Partners
TCV
Thomas H. Lee Partners
Tidemark Capital, Inc.
Tiugo Holdings, LP
TPG
Trive Capital
TruArc Partners
Ultra Maritime
Vertical Knowledge L.L.C.
The Visualize Group
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised TPG in several matters, including the up to $3.4 billion acquisition of Angelo, Gordon & Co., L.P.
- Advised Advent International in several matters, including the sale of Sovos Brands, Inc.to Campbell Soup Company.
- Advised American Securities in several matters, including its approximately $1.9 billionsale of Paragon Medical
Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP
Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP advises private equity sponsors across the large-cap and middle-market segments, providing comprehensive support on buyouts, platform acquisitions, financings, and exits. The firm is particularly active in financial services, insurance, technology, healthcare, and industrials, with a full-service platform covering regulatory, tax, and transactional matters. Spearheading the practice, Jeffrey Poss maintains a diverse portfolio that includes multi-billion-dollar take-privates and strategic majority investments. Co-head Neil Townsend has recently been active on significant disposals for healthcare and tech-focused sponsors. Morgan Elwyn regularly advises funds on public and private M&A, secondary transactions, and growth equity investments, while Rosalind Fahey Kruse is a go-to for substantial cross-border mandates. Mark Cognetti is praised as a ‘true business partner’ who is ‘adept at finding creative solutions to complex problems’. Matthew Guercio combines M&A and private equity expertise with corporate governance and securities law knowledge. In 2024, Thomas McCaffrey joined from Akin, while the infrastructure and energy-focused Sarah McLean and Holt Foster joined from A&O Shearman and Sidley Austin LLP, respectively. All individuals are based in New York except the new arrivals who join the Dallas and Houston office.
Praxisleiter:
Jeffrey Poss; Neil Townsend
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Morgan Elwyn; Rosalin Fahey Kruse; Mark Cognetti; Matthew Guercio; Thomas McCaffrey; Sarah McLean; Holt Foster
Referenzen
‘Willkie’s practice is distinguished by its deep industry expertise, a collaborative team approach, and a consistent focus on delivering exceptional outcomes for clients. The team demonstrates a unique ability to navigate complex transactions seamlessly, providing creative solutions tailored to the challenges of fairly bespoke transactions.’
‘The individuals I have worked with at Willkie consistently demonstrate exceptional expertise, responsiveness, and a deep understanding of the nuances of large-scale private equity transactions. Their ability to anticipate challenges and offer proactive, pragmatic solutions sets them apart from competitors. The partners and associates stand out for their strategic thinking, tireless work ethic, and ability to distill complex legal concepts into actionable advice.’
‘The team is practical and is focused on serving the client and being user friendly for the counterparty. In addition, the firm has strong teammates across the spectrum (finance, restructuring, corporate, etc.), and can marshall appropriate resources for complex, cross-border deals.’
Kernmandanten
3i Group plc
Aquiline Capital Partners and Aquiline Technology Growth
Ariel Alternatives
Atlas Holdings
Avista Capital Partners
Banneker Partners
Blue Wolf Capital Partners
Calvert Street Investment Partners
Capstreet
CapVest
CIP Capital
Court Square
CVC Capital Partners
Dubin Clark
FFL Partners
Genstar Capital
IMB Partners
Insight Partners
Jacmel Partners
Novacap
NXMH
Platinum Equity
Recognize Partners
TowerBrook Capital Partners
Turnspire Capital Partners LLC
Warburg Pincus
Shamrock Capital Advisors
Eden Capital
The Chernin Group
North Road Company
Monogram Capital Partners
Caliche
Haddington Ventures
Layne Water Midstream Resources
Longbow Capital Inc.
NGP
Oak Nation
Sentinel Midstream LLC
Highlight-Mandate
Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP
Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP advises top private equity sponsors and middle-market firms on complex transactions, drawing on its integrated strength in M&A, finance, tax, and investment management. The firm is a go-to adviser for major sponsors and portfolio companies, handling acquisitions, financings, and restructurings across diverse industries. The New York-based practice is jointly chaired by John Amorosi, a highly experienced partner who handles acquisitions and disposals across multiple sectors, and William Chudd, who has a robust track record on take-privates and public M&A. Michael Davis well-versed in infrastructure, tech, healthcare and pharma deals, while Harold Birnbaum and Darren Schweiger have an ever-growing practice that seems them take the lead on substantial acquisitions, investments, disposals and joint ventures. Jack Orford, John Perry and Hilary Dengel also come recommended.
Praxisleiter:
John Amorosi; William Chudd
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Michael Davisl; Harold Birnbaum; Darren Schweiger; Jack Orford; John Perry; Hilary Dengel
Kernmandanten
Atairos
Bain Capital
Bansk Group
BDT & MSD Partners
Bridgepoint
Brookfield Business Partners
Crestview Partners
Fortress Investment Group
Gallatin Point Capital
GHK Capital Partners
GHK Capital Partners
GrowthCurve Capital
Lightyear Capital
Metalmark Capital
Niobrara Capital
One Equity Partners
Partners Group
Tailwind Capital
TPG
TruArc Partners
Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP
Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP advises leading financial sponsors, sovereign wealth funds, and investment groups on private equity transactions worldwide. Team head Richard Birns handles a broad range of deals, with particular expertise in the sports sector. Co-head Ari Lanin is sought out for his skill in M&A, capital raises, securities regulation and corporate governance, while co-head Michael Piazza is chiefly recognized for his extensive work in the energy space, covering investments in both traditional and energy transition assets. Co-head John Pollack, who is highly experienced handling aerospace and defense-related deals, is strong in high-stakes M&A. Brian Scrivani joined from Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP in June 2024, and George Sampas joined from Sullivan & Cromwell LLP in June 2024. All individuals are based in New York except Lanin who operates out of Century City.
Praxisleiter:
Richard Birns; Ari Lanin; John Pollack; Michael De Voe Piazza
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Brian Scrivani; George Sampas
Kernmandanten
Veritas Capital
Lone Star Funds
RedBird Capital
OceanSound Partners
Platinum Equity Advisors LLC
Rhône Capital
Aurora Capital Partners
Citation Capital
Constellation Wealth Capital
RoundTable Healthcare Partners
Corre Partners Management
Epilog Partners
Liberty Hall Capital Partners
Maximum Effort Investments
MidOcean Partners
Andros Capital Partners
Esperanza Capital Partners
Wafra, Inc.
Highlight-Mandate
White & Case LLP
Advising on complex, high-value transactions across multiple jurisdictions, White & Case LLP is a go-to firm for financial sponsors seeking counsel on cross-border private equity M&A. Team head Oliver Brahmst has recently been active on significant acquisitions and exits for premium financial sponsors across multiple sectors, including software, legal and professional services, tourism and hospitality. John Reiss has a strong track record on complex, multi-jurisdictional carve-outs. Adam Cieply is a key contact for various investors and portfolio companies, skilled in public and private domestic and cross-border M&A. Daniel Kozin is well versed across a multitude of sectors, working for the likes of CVC Capital Partners, Nordic Capital and Kohler Co. Taurie Zeitzer has departed the team.
Praxisleiter:
Oliver Brahmst
Weitere Kernanwälte:
John Reiss; Adam Cieply; Dan Kozin
Kernmandanten
CVC Capital Partners
Brookfield Infrastructure Partners
Brookfield Renewables
Macquarie Infrastructure Partners
I Squared Capital
Encap Investments
Harvest Partners
Cobepa
Morgan Stanley Infrastructure Partners
Sixth Street Partners
Ares Management
Certares Management
Basalt Infrastructure Partners
Mill Rock Capital
Nordic Capital
Investcorp
Recognize Partners
Quad-C Management
CION Investment Corporation
Highlight-Mandate
Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP
Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP advises private equity firms, financial investors, and portfolio companies on acquisitions, financings, and exits. Peter Feist leads the New York-based team and is routinely instructed by major PE firms on acquisitions, investment and divestiture transactions. David Perkins is valued for his sector breadth, overseeing deals involving a number of different asset class including substantial real-estate mandates. Richard Hall has recently been a chief advisor to Brookfield across a number of its different verticals, including energy and insurance, while Maurio Fiore has been active on mega-mergers and strategic investment deals. Adam Sanchez promoted to partner in January 2024 and has a growing practice co-leading significant PE deals. Jihyun Chung joined from Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP in June 2024, while Andrew Compton joined from Linklaters LLP in September 2024.
Praxisleiter:
Peter Feist
Weitere Kernanwälte:
David Perkins; Richard Hall; Maurio Fiore; Adam Sanchez; Jihyun Chung; Andrew Compton
Kernmandanten
Amentum
Atalaya
BDT & MSD
Brookfield
ECN Capital
Hayfin Capital Management
Legal & General Group
Lindsay Goldberg
Neuberger Berman Private Markets
OMERS Private Equity
White Mountains
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented Amentum in its Reverse Morris Trust merger with Jacobs’ Critical Mission Solutions and Cyber and Intelligence businesses, creating a combined organization with$13 billion in revenue.
- Representing Neuberger Berman in its consortium with EQT and CPP Investments to acquire Nord Anglia for $14.5 billion.
- Represented Legal & General Group in its strategic investment in Taurus Investment Holdings.
Dechert LLP
Advising on complex private equity transactions worldwide, Dechert LLP supports leading sponsors, investment funds, and corporate clients across key sectors, including financial services, healthcare, and technology. The practice is chaired by Mark Thierfelder, who leads some of the firm’s most high-profile transactions, including advising Cerberus Capital Management on Albertsons’ agreement to merge with Kroger. Co-head Kenneth Young’s broad client base spans both the bulge bracket and mid-market, with regular instructions on take-privates, carve-outs, and co-investments. Jonathan Kim remains active across a range of sectors, overseeing acquisitions and disposals in tech, healthcare, financial services, and infrastructure, among others. Marie Mast has a growing practice in Philadelphia, where she leverages previous in-house experience at a local private equity firm.
Praxisleiter:
Mark Thierfelder; Kenneth Young
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Jonathan Kim; Marie Mast
Referenzen
‘Great coverage across this market.’
‘Ken Young is great. Thierfelder is very connected.’
Kernmandanten
Aquiline Capital Partners
Bain Capital
Bregal Partners
Centerbridge Partners
Cerberus Capital Management
Certares
Court Square Capital Partners
Estancia Capital Partners
GIC
Graham Partners
KKR
Lovell Minnick Partners
MiddleGround Capital
Morgan Stanley Capital Partners
Ridgemont Equity Partners
Quilvest Capital Partners
Sterling Investment Partners
Tengram Capital Partners
Highlight-Mandate
- Representing funds affiliated with Cerberus Capital Management, the largest shareholders in grocery store chain Albertsons, in relation to Albertsons’ definitive agreement to merge with Kroger.
- Representing GIC on its acquisition (in partnership with private equity firm Silver Lake) of Zuora, Inc., a leading monetization suite for modern business, for an enterprise value of US$1.7 billion.
- Represented Bain Capital on its acquisition of controlling stake in Archwest Capital, a California-based company that offers financing to residential real estate investors.
Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP
Providing strategic counsel on high-stakes private equity transactions, Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP is a trusted adviser to major sponsors navigating acquisitions, exits, and financings. Philip Richter and Steven Epstein co-lead the New York-based practice. Christopher Ewan has most recently acted on high-value disposals for clients with interests in the infrastructure and manufacturing sectors, while Steven Steinman is a prolific advisor whose workload includes buyouts, minority investments and divestitures. Randi Lally is frequently instructed by private equity firms seeking counsel on public and private M&A, and Mark Lucas’ focus in notably concentrated in financial services. Roy Tannenbaum also comes recommended.
Praxisleiter:
Philip Richter; Steven Epstein
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Steven Steinman; Mark Lucas; Roy Tannenbaum; Christopher Ewan
Referenzen
‘Excellent team…very organized, most fast, highly knowledgeable, mobilize their troops very effectively…get the job done.’
‘Phil Richter and Roy Tannenbaum have worked closest with me over the years and are outstanding. Phil is just an incredible business partner and is consistently consultative to assist with prioritization and decision-making.’
Kernmandanten
Advent International Corporation
AEA Investors
Becton, Dickinson and Co.
Canada Pension Plan Investment Group
Catalent
Compass Datacenters
CVC Capital Partners
Crosspoint Capital Partners
GIC
Hellman & Friedman
Investcorp
New Mountain Capital
Onex Corporation
Permira
Redball Acquisition Company
Redbird Capital Partners
Standard General
The Cranemere Group
Wafra, Inc.
Highlight-Mandate
- Acting as counsel to Standard General in connection with its USD4.6 billion buyout of gaming company Bally’s.
- Acted as counsel to Blue Owl GP Strategic Capital, a division of Blue Owl Capital Inc., in connection with the £835 million sale of Energy Capital Partners to Bridgepoint Group.
- Acted as counsel to RedBird Capital Partners and Compass Datacenters LLC in the acquisition of Compass by Brookfield Infrastructure Partners, Brookfield’s institutional partners, and existing Compass investor Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan, from RedBird and the Azrieli Group.
Jones Day
Handling complex private equity transactions across global markets, Jones Day is a go-to adviser for both top-tier and mid-market sponsors. Andrew Levine and Randi Lesnick co-lead the team from New York, with Levine being particularly well regarded for the scope of his cross-border M&A. Lisa Lathrop is noted for her transactional acumen, recently overseeing a range of buy-side and sell-side mandates, while Denise Carkhuff and Jason Grove advise clients across the full fund lifecycle, from formation and capital raising to investments and exits. Joseph Hatina is highly active in the venture capital space, providing early-stage growth companies with transactional and advisory support.
Praxisleiter:
Andrew Levine; Randi Lesnick
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Lisa Lathrop; Denise Carkhuff; Jason Grove; Joseph Hatina
Kernmandanten
Singapore Telecommunications Limited
Riverside Company, The
Cortec Group
Morgan Stanley Capital Partners
Norwest Equity Partners
Blue Sea Capital LLC
EagleTree Capital
MPE Partners
Centre Lane Partners, LLC
American Pacific Group, L.P.
Kinzie Capital Partners LP
High Road Capital Partners
Baird Capital
Blue Point Capital Partners
Koch Equity Development LLC
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented Singapore Telecommunications Limited in the sale of Trustwave to funds affiliated with The Chertoff Group for USD 205 million.
- Advised investment funds affiliated with Riverside’s Australia Fund on the sale of its Energy Exemplar platform to a newly formed acquisition vehicle jointly controlled by investment funds affiliated with Blackstone and Vista Equity Partners.
- Advised Cortec Group on the sale of its Chauvet & Sons platform to Court Square Capital Partners.
Paul Hastings LLP
Paul Hastings LLP delivers comprehensive legal services to private equity sponsors, advising on acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, financings, and restructurings and leveraging deep sector expertise. Based in Chicago, team lead Brian Richards leverages deep experience to comprehensively advise clients across a range of leverage buyouts, joint ventures and disposals. Boston’s Alexander Temel joined from Sidley Austin LLP in April 2024 and now acts as co-chair of the practice, bringing further expertise in sectors such as financial services, tech, energy and infrastructure, and healthcare. Co-head Scott Joachim operates from New York and is primarily recognised for his work in the tech sector. Other key names include the ‘world-class’ Amit Mehta, a Chicago-based partner who is regularly instructed by sponsors such as H.I.G. Capital; Steve Camahort, who is active on tech and healthcare-focused deals from San-Francisco; and Josh Ratner, who arrived from Goodwin in March 2024 to strengthen the New York office.
Praxisleiter:
Brian Richards; Alexander Temel; Scott Joachim
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Amit Mehta; Steve Camahort; Josh Ratner
Referenzen
‘Excellent M&A and financing counsel.’
‘Amit Mehta is world-class.’
Kernmandanten
ABRY Partners
Accel-KKR
Cortec Group
Francisco Partners
Goldman Sachs
H.I.G. Capital
Industrial Growth Partners
May River Partners
Oakley Capital
Pfingsten Partners
Sixth Street Partners
Symphony Technology Group
Vance Street Capital
Vector Capital
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised Francisco Partners in its take-private acquisition of New Relic.
- Advised Francisco Partners in its $1.2 billion acquisition of Jama Software.
- Advised Symphony Technology Group in its $1.4 billion take-private acquisition of Avid Technology.
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP advises private equity sponsors, funds, and portfolio companies on all stages of the investment cycle, including acquisitions, financings, restructurings, and exits. Practice head Allison Schneirov – experienced in both domestic and multijurisdictional matters – is an active adviser whose recent highlights include a number of sponsor-side acquisitions and investments. Kenneth Wolff’s capabilities span leveraged buyouts, joint ventures, spin-offs and carve-outs, as well as corporate reorganizations. Blair Thetford advises a wide client base including private equity firms, sovereign wealth funds, family offices and financial institutions on complex, multi-jurisdictional transactions. Alexandra McCormack has recently handled M&A in the tech space, particularly in relation to software. All individuals are based in New York.
Praxisleiter:
Allison Schneirov; Kenneth Wolff
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Blair Thetford; Alexandra McCormack
Highlight-Mandate
Vinson & Elkins LLP
Vinson & Elkins LLP advises leading private equity sponsors on complex, high-value transactions across key sectors, with a standout focus on energy and renewables. Houston’s Sarah Morgan chairs the practice and continues to handle a range of high-value transactions, from capital raises to large-scale leveraged buyouts and spin-offs. Co-head John Grand’s Dallas-based practice is concentrated in the energy sector, particularly in the upstream and midstream, while co-head Jim Fox, who has a similarly energy-focused practice, also covers investments and disposals in transport and industrials from the New York office. Also acting out of New York, Dan Komarek leverages his capabilities in M&A to advise on a host of sponsor-side and portfolio company mandates. Peter Marshall and Robert Hughes also come recommended, operating out of Dallas and Houston, respectively. Sebastian Tiller and Benjamin Heriaud joined from Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP in October 2024, while Stephen Gill left the firm in January 2025.
Praxisleiter:
Sarah Morgan; John Grand; Jim Fox; Dan Komarek
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Peter Marshall; Robert Hughes; Sebastian Tiller; Benjamin Heriaud
Kernmandanten
Global Infrastructure Partners
Morgan Stanley Infrastructure Partners
Global Atlantic Financial Group
Apollo Global Management, Inc.
CSI Compressco LP
Sixth Street Partners
The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.
Gainsight, Inc.
Highlight-Mandate
Freshfields LLP
Freshfields LLP made several significant partner acquisitions in 2024, futhering its growth in the private equity space. Neal Reenan and Ian Bushner arrived from Latham & Watkins LLP in March, while Claire James joined from Latham & Watkins LLP in October; the trio now co-chair the practice. Their expertise spans M&A, joint ventures, and restructurings, and they continue to advise major PE firms on both domestic and cross-border transactions. Further strengthening the team, Ryan Blicher arrived from Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP in November, bringing industry-spanning experience, while Sanjay Murti joined from Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP in January. Additionally, Joshua Ayal, Steven Li, and Eva Mak joined from Kirkland & Ellis LLP in January 2024, bolstering the firm’s bench strength.
Praxisleiter:
Neal Reenan; Ian Bushner; Claire James
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Ryan Blicher; Sanjay Murti; Joshua Ayal, Steven Li; Eva Mak
Kernmandanten
CVC Capital Partners
Patient Square
IP3
Zuora
Sonoco Products Company
Zeus Company
Ascendant Capital
Confluent
TPG
Bain Capital
H.I.G. Capital
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised CVC on its carve-out acquisition of the Therakos business from global specialty pharma company Mallinckrodt. CVC will acquire Therakos for an enterprise value of $925 million, subject to customary adjustments.
- Advised Patient Square Capital and its Elevage Medical Technologies platform on an investment by Elevage and Prudential Assurance Company (acting by its investment manager M&G Investment Management Limited) in 4basebio PLC.
- Represented Indo-Pacific Partnership for Prosperity in leading the formation of a new coalition with Global Infrastructure Partners, KKR, and other global investors.
McDermott Will & Emery LLP
Team head Frank Steinherr operates out of New York and has recently advised on acquisitions and investments in a variety of tech spaces, including software, digital assets and MedTech. Co-head Frederic Levenson advises a range of private equity sponsors and their portfolio companies from Miami and underpins acute transactional skill with strong experience in the healthcare sector. The two further team leads Gregory Metz and Kristian Werling sit in Chicago and regularly assist with clients on leveraged buyouts, investments and disposals, with the former also noted for his work in the pharma and healthcare sectors. From Miami, Harris Siskind, Eric Gilbert, Michael Hacker and Alexander Clavero advise a strong roster of sponsors across M&A, joint ventures, restructurings and corporate governance, demonstrating expertise across a multitude of industries. Lindsey Reighard also comes recommended.
Praxisleiter:
Frank Steinherr; Frederic Levenson; Gregory Metz; Kristian Werling
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Harris Siskind; Eric Gilbert; Michael Hacker; Alexander Clavero; Lindsey Reighard
Kernmandanten
A&M Capital
Amulet Capital Partners
Arcline Investment
AUA Private Equity Partners
Avesi Partners
Comvest Partners
Deerfield Management
Gemspring Capital Management
Great Point Partners
H.I.G. Capital
Hidden Harbor Capital Partners
Iron Path Capital
Lee Equity Partners
Lindsay Goldberg
Lorient Capital Management
Martis Capital
Nautic Partners
Staple Street Capital
The Sterling Group
Wellspring Capital Management
WindRose Health Investors
York Capital
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented H.I.G. Capital LLC in its $1.325 billion cross-border sale of its majority share in Recochem to CapVest Partners LLP.
- Represented Comvest Partners in its sale of its majority share in Systems Control to Hubbell Incorporated.
- Represented Amulet Capital Partners in its acquisition of Genetics & IVF Institute, Inc. and its affiliates, including Fairfax Eggbank, Inc. and Fairfax Cryobank, Inc.
Milbank
A key choice for domestic and global private equity firms, Milbank advises on a range of multi-billion-dollar transactions, leveraging its strength in funds, tax, and regulatory matters. Dean Sattler leads the practice and has a strong track record advising major sponsors on high-value acquisitions, particularly in the aviation industry. Co-head Richard Presutti is regularly sought out by a host of global investment firms for his skill in M&A, while Andrew Fadale is active for client across numerous sectors. Lowell Dyer was a key advisor to Veritas alongside Presutti in Bain Capital Private Equity’s $5.3 billion acquisition of Veritas’ portfolio company Guidehouse Inc. Derek Winokur also comes recommended.
Praxisleiter:
Dean Sattler; Richard Presutti
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Andrew Fadale; Lowell Dyer
Kernmandanten
Actis
Apollo Global Management
Cerberus
H.C. Starck
Bob Iger
JPMorgan Chase
OEP Capital Advisors
Riverspan Partners
Willow Bay
Veritas
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised Vertias and Veritas-backed Guidehouse in the $5.3 billion acquisition of Guidehouse by Bain Capital Private Equity.
- Represented Apollo Global Management in connection with the €1.5 billion investment by Apollo-managed affiliated entities, funds and clients into an Air France-KLM operating affiliate holding the trademark and most of the commercial partners contracts related to Air France and KLM’s joint loyalty program (Flying Blue).
Sidley Austin LLP
Sidley Austin LLP combines transactional expertise with regulatory strength to advise a growing roster of major sponsors and portfolio companies on acquisitions, investments, financings and exits across a variety of different industries. Dan Clivner and Mehdi Khodadad lead the team from Century City, providing a wealth of experience in leveraged buyouts and cross-border deals. Scott Parel, Dallas, and Brien Wassner, New York, sit as co-heads of the global team, and provide further expertise in sponsor-side M&A, with the former particularly recognised for his skill in distressed investments. The firm expanded its private equity team in 2024 through the hire of Jon Olsen from Goodwin and David D’Urso and Elazar Guttman from Akin.
Praxisleiter:
Dan Clivner; Mehdi Khodadad; Brien Wassner; Scott Parel
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Jon Olsen; David D’Urso; Elazar Guttman
Kernmandanten
American Industrial Partners
Apollo Capital Management, L.P
Arsenal Capital Partners
Bain Capital
Carlyle
Centerbridge Partners, L.P.
Clearlake Capital Group, LP
EQT
GIC Pte Ltd.
KKR
Northlane Capital Partners
ShoreView Industries
Siris Capital Group
Stonepeak
Stone Point Capital
Tengram Capital Partners
Thompson Street Capital Partners LLC
TowerBrook Capital Partners
Wafra Inc
WCAS Management Corporation
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented IEQ Capital in IEQ Capital’s acquisition of EPIQ Capital Group, an approximately $5.3 billion multi-family office and investment firm.
- Represented Carlyle and KKR in their acquisition of an approximately $10.1 billion portfolio of prime private student loans from Discover.
- Represented Clearlake Capital Group, L.P., in partnership with Insight Partners, in their $4.4 billion take-private acquisition of Alteryx, Inc., a leader in artificial intelligence for enterprise analytics