Regularly acting for private equity houses and investors on multijurisdictional acquisitions, public takeovers, and general investment work, Clifford Chance LLP is active across the European and North American markets. With expertise in a range of industries, spanning from cybersecurity and leisure to life sciences and business services, the team is also highly regarded for its handling of IPOs and joint ventures. Practice head Spencer Baylin has considerable experience in complex reinvestments and M&A, while Jonny Myers is well-versed in all manner of transactions. Bruce Embley is noted for his track record in disposals; Neil Barlow maintains a strong focus on the sports and entertainment industries; and Shimin Lee is highlighted for her co-investment work. Neil Evans is highly renowned for the breadth of his corporate law insight, while Graham Phillips chiefly advises on leveraged buyouts.
Private equity: transactions – high-value deals (£500m+) in London
Clifford Chance LLP
Responsables de la pratique:
Spencer Baylin
Autres avocats clés:
Jonny Myers; Bruce Embley; Neil Barlow; Shimin Lee; Neil Evans; Graham Phillips; Mark Inkester; Josh Reynolds
Principaux clients
Permira
Blackstone
Cinven
CVC Capital Partners
Elliott Advisors
EQT
KKR
Onex
Partners Group
Ardian
TPG
Vitruvian
Sixth Street
Carlyle Group
Brookfield
Middleground
GIC
Davidson Kempner
Gyrus
ICG
Principaux dossiers
- Advised EQT on the acquisition of AMCS, a supplier of cloud-based and AI-enabled planning, performance, and sustainability focused software for waste management, recycling and other resource-intensive industries.
- Advised Cinven in relation to its €2.5bn public takeover of Synlab, a leading diagnostic services and specialty testing company in Europe, together with Elliott Advisors on its participation in such takeover and rollover investment into Synlab.
- Advised on the acquisition of a majority stake in leading global renewables developer Neoen and launch of a mandatory tender offer for 100% of the company- the implied equity value of this transaction is €6.1 billion.
Kirkland & Ellis International LLP
Kirkland & Ellis International LLP draws superlative praise from clients for its 'client service, commerciality, and solutions-oriented approach'. The firm consistently represents high-profile clients—including some of the world's largest asset managers—on deals across industries ranging from cybersecurity to entertainment. Leveraging significant cross-border capabilities, the team advises a mix of domestic and international clients across all aspects of multijurisdictional M&A and complex take-privates. David Higgins and Matthew Elliott spearhead the London team; Higgins regularly handles equity investments and minority stake sales, while Elliott is noted for his expertise in capitalisations and strategic partnerships. Stuart Boyd acts for private equity and financial sponsors on various cross-border deals, Adrian Maguire covers disposals and carve-out transactions, and Alvaro Membrillera is recommended for his track record in PE-driven M&A. Other key figures include Vincent Bergin, who acts for financial investors, and Aneeq Durrani, noted for his M&A capabilities.
Responsables de la pratique:
David Higgins; Matthew Elliott
Autres avocats clés:
Stuart Boyd; Adrian Maguire; Alvaro Membrillera; Vincent Bergin; Aneeq Durrani; Greg Scott; Jacob Traff
Les références
‘K&E is simply the best. The client service, commerciality, and solutions-oriented approach is simply unmatched.’
‘K&E have high-quality partners, who are commercial as well as very good at driving processes. They have a high market share, which also gives them real-time insights and look to add real value.’
‘Matt Elliott – commercial view, responsive, deep market knowledge.’
Principaux clients
Advent International
Antin Infrastructure Partners
Apax
Bain Capital Private Equity
BC Partners
Blackstone
Brookfield
CD&R
Cinven
GIC
Hellman & Friedman
KKR
Montagu Private Equity
Permira
Starwood Capital Group
TA Associates
Thoma Bravo
TDR Capital
TPG
Vista Equity Partners
Warburg Pincus
Principaux dossiers
- Advised consortium of CVC Private Equity Funds, Nordic Capital and ADIA on the announcement of a £5.4 billion recommended cash acquisition of Hargreaves Lansdown.
- Advised Clayton, Dubilier & Rice on the £17 billion (EV) acquisition of a 50% controlling stake in Opella from Sanofi.
- Advised GIC alongside CPPIB and Equinix to co-Invest in a $15 billion digital infrastructure platform.
Latham & Watkins
Regularly working on both the buy and sell side of high-value private equity transactions, Latham & Watkins is routinely called upon to manage cross-border M&A and strategic investments. The firm’s corporate coverage is extensive, including complex take-privates, carve-outs, and joint ventures between sponsors and corporations. The practice is jointly led by Tom Evans and Thomas Forschbach, both of whom are key contacts for some of the firm’s leading asset management clients, while David Walker is particularly noted for his work in the sports sector. Paul Dolman concentrates on leveraged acquisitions and minority investments, while ‘exceptional negotiator’ Kem Ihenacho is noted for his track record in deals spanning a range of sectors, from entertainment to consumer goods. Mike Bond is particularly experienced in portfolio company mandates. Farah O’Brien is noted for her focus on later-stage growth investors, Linzi Thomas is highly regarded for her expertise in high-value transactions, and Huw Thomas is well regarded for his capabilities in restructuring mandates. Ross Allardice, who recently joined the team from White & Case, is an expert in joint investments and management equity arrangements.
Responsables de la pratique:
Tom Evans; Thomas Forschbach
Autres avocats clés:
David Walker; Paul Dolman; Kem Ihenacho; Mike Bond; Farah O’Brien; Linzi Thomas; Huw Thomas; Suneel Basson-Bhatoa; Neil Campbell; Jon Fox; Maarten Overmars; Katie Peek; Chris Cox; Michael Houlder
Les références
‘Fantastic team to work with. They just have a knack for making things look easy. The team chemistry is second to none. Joy to work with our entire relationship team.’
‘Kem Ihenacho is an exceptional negotiator. True trusted advisor. Flawless execution, always. Easily one of my favourite lawyers in London.’
‘Linzi Thomas is another exceptional practitioner. Laser focused on client delivery.’
Principaux clients
Ares Management
Advent International
Astorg Partners
BC Partners
Blackstone
Bridgepoint
Brookfield
CPP Investments
CVC Capital Partners
EQT
Equistone
Epiris
Francisco Partners
General Atlantic
GIC
Global Infrastructure Partners
Goldman Sachs
GTCR
Helios Investment Partners
Hellman & Friedman
Inflexion
KKR
KSL Capital Partners
L Catterton
Leonard Green & Partners
Nordic Capital
OMERS Infrastructure
OneIM
One Rock
Onex Partners
Partners Group
Permira
Platinum Equity
PSP Investments
Sixth Street
Silver Lake Partners
Spectrum Equity
TA Associates
The Carlyle Group
TPG
Principaux dossiers
Weil, Gotshal & Manges (London) LLP
The ‘very cohesive’ and ‘high-quality’ team at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP is well versed in handling big-ticket acquisitions and voluntary cash takeovers, handling transactions across the Asian, European, and North American markets. ‘Technically brilliant and a blue riband client partner’, the team is led by Marco Compagnoni. Noted for his tech sector focus, Jonathan Wood specialises in complex M&A transactions. Simon Lyell is well-versed in disposals and restructurings; James Harvey assists sponsors on buyouts and carve-outs; and Lewis Blakey is also recommended for the breadth of his practice. Other key figures include Max Oppenheimer and Brendan Moylan, both of whom are recommended for their track record in international corporate transactions.
Responsables de la pratique:
Marco Compagnoni
Autres avocats clés:
Jonathan Wood; Simon Lyell; James Harvey; Lewis Blakey; Max Oppenheimer; Brendan Moylan; Murray Cox; Martin Weatherston-Wilson
Les références
‘Weil’s PE team is a very cohesive, high-quality unit. There may be differences of style between the partners, but the quality is uniformly excellent. A lot of big firms have « B » or « C » teams, but this isn’t the case for Weil’s London PE team’
‘Marco Compagnoni is a unique lawyer – technically brilliant but also a blue riband client partner. This means that he’s the perfect choice for difficult deals–he can navigate the legal challenges but he also has fabulous people skills to enable him to find a way to get a transaction done.’
‘Unrivalled ability to get to the heart of what matters as a client, in a timely and efficient way. Weil go above and beyond to deliver results and solve issues; we don’t have to ask twice, and they are a pleasure to partner with. All the Weil team we work with are superstars and we would recommend them to everyone.’
Principaux clients
SilverTree Equity Partners
One Investment Management
Advent International
Bain Capital
Providence Equity
Berkshire Partners
TPG
CVC
Aleph Capital
PAI Partners
FitzWalter Capital
Montagu Private Equity
Ardian
Clayton, Dubilier & Rice
Oaktree Capital
Providence Strategic Growth
TCV
Blackstone Growth
General Atlantic
65 Equity Partners
Ontario Teachers’
OMERS
Public Sector Pension Investment Board
Canada Pension Plan Investment Board
Sun European Partners
A&M Capital Europe
Generation Investment Management
Bain Capital Credit
Advent Tech
HIG Technology Partners
Bain Capital Tech Ops
Px3
Cobham
Kantar
Howden
Laird
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Advent International, along with Aareal Bank, on its €3.9 billion ($4.2 billion) sale of Aareon to TPG and CDPQ.
- Advised PAI Partners on its acquisition of a majority stake in Audiotonix.
- Advised Global Infrastructure Partners as part of a consortium together with Khazanah Nasional Berhad and Employees’ Provident Fund of Malaysia, on a pre-conditional voluntary cash takeover offer for Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad. The transaction values the equity of MAHB, which is listed on Bursa Malaysia, at c. $3.9 billion.
Linklaters LLP
Fielding a team of ‘extremely strong technical lawyers’, Linklaters LLP consistently advises high-profile sponsors and global corporates on big-ticket equity investments and private equity-backed M&A transactions. The firm’s corporate offering covers take-privates and strategic capital investments, showcasing significant activity in the financial services, tech, and healthcare industries. The team is jointly led by Alex Woodward and Ben Rodham, both of whom are particularly noted for their experience in carve-outs, co-investments, and distressed acquisitions. Chris Boycott routinely acts for financial sponsors and investee companies, Tracey Lochhead is a corporate finance specialist, while Daniel Law primarily concentrates on secondary buyouts and consortium transactions. Andrew Lynch and Peter McCabe are also recommended.
Responsables de la pratique:
Alex Woodward; Ben Rodham
Autres avocats clés:
Chris Boycott; Tracey Lochhead; Daniel Law; Andrew Lynch; Peter McCabe; Alex Lehtinen; Genna Marten; Ben Suen; Martin Arnal; Tom Gavin; John Tsui
Les références
‘Linklaters have really deep bench strength with quality operators right across the team. They provide wonderful client service – they are responsive, technically excellent, and always apply a commercial mindset and approach to their advice. They take time to build relationships of trust and partnership and understand every aspect of our organisation, which really helps to deliver transactions where multiple stakeholders need to be brought in line. Linklaters is a Firm we turn to on our most complex transactions, particularly given the strength of their sector and specialist teams, which are top-notch.’
‘We work a lot with Andy Lynch and his team. Andy is super user-friendly and is a go-to partner for us on complex transactions. He’s really hands-on, totally across the issues that matter, and always available and responsive. He applies the right balance of technical, legal, and commercial skills to help us identify and navigate risks, keeping us away from danger zones, whilst also keeping all sides focused on the issues that matter to getting a deal done.’
‘Alex Woodward is an invaluable partner for us, he thinks around issues extremely well and is a really helpful sounding board and voice of calm reason. Genna Marten has been an excellent addition to the team. She is very hands-on and responsive, pragmatic, and thoughtful about how to achieve a workable outcome for all parties. Chris Boycott is extremely knowledgeable and experienced when it comes to public deals. Ben Rodham is also excellent, very calm and pragmatic. It’s also great to see John Tsui get promoted to add further strength and depth to the team.’
Principaux clients
Ardian
Apax
Apollo
Blackstone
BC Partners
Brookfield
Carlyle
CDPQ
Cerberus
CPPIB
DigitalBridge
EQT
GIC
Global Infrastructure Partners
Hg
iCON Infrastructure
I Squared Capital
Montagu Private Equity
Nordic Capital
Oaktree
Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan
OPTrust
PAI Partners
Permira
PSP Investments
TDR Capital
Telemos Capital
TPG
Triton
Warburg Pincus
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Hg on (i) the acquisition of a minority stake in team.blue by CPPIB and Sofina; and (ii) a further investment by Hg, valuing the business at €4.5bn.
- Advised the Brookfield-led consortium on the closing of the £2.2bn recommended public offer for Network International Holdings Plc.
- Advised the Brookfield-led consortium on its minority preferred equity investment in GEMS Education, a UAE-based education and ancillary services provider.
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP
Noted for its capabilities across a host of work streams, including majority stake sales and whole issued share capital acquisitions, Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP is routinely engaged by a mix of leading PE firms and corporates. The firm boasts strong coverage, with primary areas of focus being media, real estate, and sport. The team is led by London-based Ben Spiers, a highly experienced M&A specialist. European managing partner Wheatly MacNamara is well-versed in handling high-value private equity transactions, particularly in the real estate sector, while James Howe is consistently involved in major mandates, including a number of multi-billion-Euro acquisitions. Amy Mahon and Geoffrey Bailhache are noted for their tech sector acumen, and Clare Gaskell is renowned for her corporate law expertise.
Responsables de la pratique:
Ben Spiers
Autres avocats clés:
Wheatly MacNamara; James Howe; Amy Mahon; Geoffrey Bailhache; Clare Gaskell
Principaux clients
Apax Partners
Apollo Global Management
Blackstone
Bridgepoint Group plc
Bruin Capital
Corsair Capital
CVC Capital Partners
Hellman & Friedman
H.I.G Capital
EQT
Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co.
LetterOne Investments
Lone Star Funds
Oakley Capital
Silver Lake
Nordic Capital
New Mountain Capital
GTCR Private Equity
TCV Private Equity
Eurazeo Asset Management
Principaux dossiers
- Represented Blackstone on its £10Bbn investment and development of AI data centres in Blyth, Northumberland.
- Represented Software AG, a company controlled by Silver Lake, on its sale of StreamSets and webMethods, Software AG’s Super iPaaS business enterprise technology platforms, to IBM for €2.13 billion.
- Represented CVC Capital Partners in connection with its acquisition of M Group Services, the U.K.’s largest provider of essential infrastructure services and solutions, from PAI Partners.
Freshfields
Working with a strong roster of private equity firms, pension funds, and other institutional investors, Freshfields is particularly noted for its experience in carve-out acquisitions and majority investments, often spanning across jurisdictions. The firm brings notable cross-sector expertise — particularly across the automotive, software, and banking industries — along with proven experience in majority stake transactions. Charles Hayes, Victoria Sigeti, and James Scott jointly head the team, each specialising in take-privates and exits, alongside representing financial sponsors and major investors. Joining them in London, Alastair Brown chiefly concentrates on co-investments and management incentivisation arrangements. Variously praised as ‘highly thoughtful and attentive’ and ‘commercially savvy’, Mark Brewer is highly regarded for his growth capital investment work. Angus Scott and Chris Yarrow are also recommended.
Responsables de la pratique:
Charles Hayes; Victoria Sigeti; James Scott
Autres avocats clés:
Alastair Brown; Mark Brewer; Angus Scott; Chris Yarrow
Les références
‘Very strong large cap PE practice, with deep understanding of how a PE firm operates.’
‘Mark Brewer is a trusted advisor to our deal teams. He’s commercially savvy and can get the deal done.’
‘The ability to draw on a deep bench of high-quality associates, specialists and local counsels, together with its deep institutional knowledge, makes Freshfields our trusted and preferred adviser on our most complex matters.’
Principaux clients
Advent International
AEA Investors
A&M Capital
Apollo
Blackstone
CDPQ
Clayton, Dubilier & Rice
Charterhouse Capital Partners
Cinven
CPP Investments
CVC Capital Partners
EQT
General Atlantic
GIC
Hellman & Friedman
ICG
KKR
Montagu Private Equity
Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan
PAI Partners
Permira
PSP Investments
Sixth Street
TPG
Vitruvian Partners
Warburg Pincus
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Cinven on its majority investment in Alter Domus.
- Advised Cinven on its majority investment in Grant Thornton UK.
- Advised the selling shareholders, including Adevinta (a portfolio company of Blackstone and Permira), on the sale of Distilled Limited to Blacksheep Fund Management.
Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher
Noted for its expertise in the data analytics, software, and energy fields, the ‘very technical and devoted’ team at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher regularly works with financial sponsors and private equity funds on high-value mandates. The firm’s corporate offering is broad, spanning from multi-jurisdictional M&A to equity investments and disposals. Practice co-head Wim De Vlieger is an expert in buyout transactions and exits. Fellow co-head Federico Fruhbeck is highly experienced in IPOs and capital markets transactions. M&A specialist Alice Brogi is praised by clients for her ‘fantastic legal knowledge’, while Isabel Berger is noted for her work in joint ventures. Will Summers, who joined the team from White & Case LLP in September 2024, is described by clients as an ‘absolute superstar’.
Responsables de la pratique:
Wim De Vlieger; Federico Fruhbeck
Autres avocats clés:
Isabel Berger; Alice Brogi; Robert Dixon; Claibourne Harrison; Patrick Hennessy; Jeremy Kenley; Till Lefranc; Amar Madhani; Mark Sperotto; Will Summers; Jakob Egle
Les références
‘Undoubtedly, Alice and Fede’s team main strength is the range of expertise that they offer. They possess genuine asset class expertise and have access to a broad bench of specialists across various fields, which aligns well with the nature of our investments.’
‘Federico Fruhbeck has an incredible reputation within the market and this is entirely deserved. He is a true dealmaker; incredibly knowledgeable, and has an amazing ability of making sophisticated and challenging transactions simple.’
‘Alice Brogi is a joy to work with. She is absolutely one of the very best lawyers working in this field and combines fantastic legal knowledge with an unbelievable service ethos. Knowing that she is working on our deals, and is in or corner, gives us huge confidence.’
Principaux clients
KKR
Cinven
Platinum Equity
Investcorp
Aurora Capital
IPI Partners
Liberty Hall Capital Partners
Blackstone
EQT
Goldman Sachs
GIC
Oaktree Capital Management
Elliott Investment Management
RedBird Capital
Veritas Capital
Principaux dossiers
Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP
Regularly advising on high-profile private equity transactions, including multijurisdictional M&A, Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP is well-equipped to support a range of market-leading investors and portfolio companies, with particular experience handling equity investments and strategic co-investments for clients within the automotive, infrastructure, and insurance industries. Practice co-head Will Aitken-Davies is praised by clients for being 'very strong on technical issues and commercial enough to cut through to what actually matters.' Fellow co-head Roger Johnson is noted for his track record of advising leading asset managers on cross-border deals, while Christopher Sullivan is highly experienced in sponsor-side M&A transactions. Some of the firm's most prominent clients turn to David Holdsworth for his capabilities in high-value take-privates. Oliver Marcuse and Rohan Dey are also recommended.
Responsables de la pratique:
Will Aitken-Davies; Roger Johnson
Autres avocats clés:
David Holdsworth; Christopher Sullivan; Oliver Marcuse; Rohan Dey
Les références
‘Will Aitken-Davies stands out for me among all the big name hires Paul Weiss have made in London. He is super dedicated and focused, a pragmatic and constructive problem solver, very strong on technical/complex issues and commercial enough to cut through to what actually matters.’
Principaux clients
Apollo Global Management, Inc.
Bain Capital
Brighton Park Capital
EQT
General Atlantic
G-III Apparel Group
Global Auto Holdings
Global Infrastructure Partners
HPS
I Squared Capital
KPS Capital Partners
Madison Dearborn Partners
Oak Hill Advisors, L.P.
L-GAM Advisors
TDR Capital
Vitruvian Partners
Westbury Street Holdings (WSH)
Principaux dossiers
Ropes & Gray LLP
Displaying key cross-border capabilities — especially in M&A transactions and major funding rounds — Ropes & Gray LLP earns client praise as both ‘exceptional’ and ‘highly responsive’ across international markets. The firm demonstrates particular strength in healthcare, AI, and software transactions, with notable activity on the buy-side of private equity deals. David Blittner spearheads the practice from New York, while in London, Paul Armstrong primarily concentrates on growth investments mandates. Angela Becker handles leveraged buyouts, while other key figures include the ‘exceptionally talented’ Shona Ha; Elizabeth Todd, praised for her ‘deep expertise and excellent client service’; and the ‘top-notch’ Victoria McGrath, noted for her focus on minority investment deals.
Responsables de la pratique:
David Blittner
Autres avocats clés:
Paul Armstrong; Angela Becker; Shona Ha; Victoria McGrath; John Newton; Dan Oates; Simon Saitowitz; Elizabeth Todd; Laura Kayani; Ciara Stratford; Phoebe Glenister-So; Nicholas Matthew
Les références
‘The Ropes corporate team under John Newton and Shona Ha has provided us with exceptional support over a number of years across some particularly complex projects, and has become trusted advisors that bring a depth of industry experience to the table. They are responsive, adaptable and able to readily tailor their approach, advice, and work product to the audience and business needs to ensure we are getting true value every time.’
‘Shona Ha is an exceptionally talented partner with a wealth of experience to bring to the table, alongside a very sensible and pragmatic view of risk. I know I can call Shona anytime and talk through a particularly thorny issue, and get thoughtful and practical advice.’
‘Exceptional team, very knowledgeable and able to provide tangible recommendations to navigate deal dynamics. Breadth of capabilities and expertise.’
Principaux clients
3i
Advent International
AEA Investors
Altamont Capital
American Industrial Partners
Aquiline Capital Partners
Arsenal Capital Management
Astorg
Athyrium
Audax Group
Averna Capital
Avista Capital Partners
Baillie Gifford
Bain Capital
Bridgepoint
British International Investment (formerly CDC)
BV Investment Partners
Cambridge Information Group (CIG)
Carlyle
Cathexis
Charlesbank Capital Partners
Cove Hill
Crosspoint Capital
CVC Capital
Dragoneer Investments
EQT Private Equity Asia
Exponent
FinDev Canada
Francisco Partners
Generation Investment Management
Genstar Capital
GHO Capital
GI Partners
GIC
HIG Capital
IK Partners
Inflexion
Intermediate Capital Group (ICG)
Keyframe Capital
Lee Equity
NaMa Capital
Natixis
Nature Infrastructure Capital
New Mountain Capital
Nordic Capital
Northpond Ventures
Oakley Partners
PAI Partners
Partners Group
Permira
PIMCO
Sands Capital
Silver Lake Partners
Summit Partners
Sixth Street
TPG
TriArtisan Capital
TSG Consumer Partners
Vision Ridge Partners
Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe
Principaux dossiers
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom (UK) LLP
Spearheaded by the ‘exceptional’ Richard Youle, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom (UK) LLP has a strong track record in take-private acquisitions and disposals, often spanning across multiple jurisdictions. Noted for its focus on the media, software, and financial services sectors, the firm is often called upon by private equity sponsors and global corporations to advise on equity investments. Katja Butler is highly experienced in carve-out transactions, Steven Hannah specialises in leveraged buyouts and disposals, and Sandro de Bernardini is noted for his track record in exits and refinancing deals.
Responsables de la pratique:
Richard Youle
Autres avocats clés:
Katja Butler; Steven Hannah; Sandro de Bernardini; George Gray
Les références
‘The whole Skadden team is extremely strong technical lawyers providing exceptional customer service. They have some of the broadest and deepest understanding of private equity amongst their peers. They are true thought partners who go above and beyond.’
‘Rich, Katja and Steven are excellent. They provide true partnership to us and help us solve the most complex problems whilst being aligned with our culture.’
‘Richard Youle is exceptional, one of the best when it comes to cutting through complexity and giving clear and decisive advice. Amply supported by the excellent Steven Hannah and Katja Butler, the team is a real execution machine, consistently delivering complicated transactions, very smoothly on tight timeframes.’
Principaux clients
Hg
I Squared Capital
Castik Capital
JAB
BlackRock
InvestIndustrial
H.I.G. Capital
Permira
Triple Private Equity
Black Diamond Capital
Montagu
Silver Lake
FTV
Principaux dossiers
- Advising BlackRock, Inc. as part of a consortium including Allianz SE and T&D Holdings, Inc. on the $3.8 billion acquisition of Viridium Group from Cinven Limited.
- Advised Hg Saturn 3 on its investment in Visma, an existing Hg portfolio company and a leading provider of business-critical software to private and public enterprises in the Nordic, Benelux and Baltic regions, at an enterprise value of $21 billion.
- Advised Hg on the $3 billion acquisition of AuditBoard Inc, a leading connected risk platform transforming audit, risk, compliance and ESG management.
White & Case LLP
Regularly acting on the buy side in major transactions, the ‘hardworking’ and ‘commercial’ team at White & Case LLP is highly regarded for its knowledge in high-value acquisitions and majority investments. The team has experience in advising infrastructure funds and financial sponsors operating across a multitude of sectors, spanning from software to healthcare. The London team is jointly led by the ‘superb’ Richard Jones, and Lucy Bullock, a key port of call for a host of portfolio companies. Other key figures include Ken Barry, who concentrates on leveraged buyouts and disposals, and Joe Bradley, who draws praise for his commerciality and client service. Helen Croke joined the firm from Ropes & Gray LLP in June 2025.
Responsables de la pratique:
Richard Jones; Lucy Bullock
Autres avocats clés:
Ken Barry; Ben von Maur; Joe Bradley; Helen Croke
Les références
‘W&C has a good Private Equity team, who understand what PE investors truly need from legal advisors and what kind of support is needed – W&C teams are hardworking and always ready to support customers and commercial at the same time.’
‘Ben von Maur was a great partner, driving the work and ensuring a highly successful transaction, thanks to his strong commitment. Team was highly commercial and focused on the key points, ensuring that the deal can be done. Also, really nice and friendly team.’
‘We always get access to genuinely market-leading partners in any geography or sector we need, which sets them apart from other firms. They have leaned into our relationship for several years, and they staff our teams with partners and associates who have worked with us (both internally and externally) for years. We don’t get that at all levels from other firms, and it makes working with them much easier. Their ongoing focus on our portfolio companies is a differentiator – we’ve used their sanctions, data protection and employment teams to deal with issues and advise us on upcoming regulatory changes. Our portco management teams are always highly complementary.’
‘They are our go-to firm for complex transactions or competitive processes – they execute fast with no loss of quality. They are extremely client-focused – we get incredible access and attention at the partner level, and the associates we work with are excellent .’
‘We regularly work with Joe Bradley. His knowledge of how we view risk and what matters most to us as an institution is unique. He has dealt with last-minute issues which looked like they would stop us from signing deals calmly, commercially and effectively, which allowed us to get the deals done on terms we were happy with.’
‘A very strong transactional firm. Their geographic coverage is excellent, and they provide high-quality advice across the platform.’
‘Richard Jones is superb. He is calm under pressure, provides extremely user-friendly advice, and is a highly respected and trusted adviser to our team.’
‘Good strength in depth across all areas.’
Principaux dossiers
A&O Shearman
Leveraging extensive cross-border capabilities, A&O Shearman's team is highly regarded for its experience in high-profile acquisitions and sales of issued share capital. The firm has strength in advising multi-strategy asset managers and private capital funds, often operating within the infrastructure, TMT, and energy industries. In London, global co-head of private equity Stephen Lloyd specialises in disposals and corporate finance transactions, while European sector lead Peter Banks is noted for his track record in joint ventures and exits. Paul Dunbar chiefly concentrates on equity investments. Experienced in a range of cross-border transactions, Monika Przygoda is also recommended.
Responsables de la pratique:
Stephen Lloyd; Peter Banks
Autres avocats clés:
Paul Dunbar; Monika Przygoda; Chris Sabine; Tina Barazandeh-Nejad
Les références
‘Responsive, strong execution, strong commercial and negotiation acumen.’
Principaux clients
3i
AnaCap
Apax
Apollo
Ardian France
Ares
Avenue Capital
Blacksheep Fund Management
Blackstone
Bridgepoint
Brookfield
BC Partners
Carlyle
CDPQ
Charterhouse
Cinven
CVC
Exponent
EQT
Fremman Capital
H.I.G Capital
Lone Star Funds
NXMH
OMERS
One Equity Partners
PAI Partners
Partners Group
Providence Equity Partners
Strikwerda Investments
Stellex Capital
Telemos Capital
Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS)
Waterland
Principaux dossiers
- Advising the sellers, led by Ardian, on the c. GBP 2bn sale of the share capital of Audiotonix to PAI Partners.
- Advising Strikwerda Investments and leading European online solutions provider Your.World on the EUR 800 million long-term partnership capital in the form of preferred equity investment from Ares Management Credit funds and Carlyle.
- Advising Bridgepoint on its recommended GBP 626 million cash offer to acquire Alpha Financial Markets Consulting.
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton
Acting for private equity buyers and international investors, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton showcases considerable expertise in public-to-private acquisitions, cross-border investments, and debt finance matters. The London-based outfit is co-headed by Ian Shawyer and Michael Preston; Shawyer focuses on leveraged buyouts and consortium deals, while Preston is well versed in joint ventures and minority investments. Gabriele Antonazzo chiefly focuses on private equity fund acquisitions, and Michael James is highlighted for his equity buyout work.
Responsables de la pratique:
Ian Shawyer; Michael Preston
Autres avocats clés:
Gabriele Antonazzo; Michael James; Chris Gollop
Les références
‘Great team, strong leadership. Outstanding partner leadership where necessary. Highly attentive and laser-focused on client needs.’
‘Ian Shawyer is an exceptional lawyer and advisor. Smart, streetwise, willing to take a view, attentive listener, and very straightforward to deal with. One of the very few PE lawyers who truly knows when he needs to be in the detail, but is comfortable delegating when he doesn’t need to be. Has an outstanding sense of his client’s risk appetite.’
Principaux clients
Bridgepoint
Central Group (Central)
Exponent Private Equity
Hayfin Capital Management
IK Investment Partners Limited
Just Climate
Patient Square Capital
Sixth Street
Temasek
TPG Group
Warburg Pincus
Zuber Issa CBE
Principaux dossiers
- Advising Temasek on the €6.1 billion take-private of Neoen S.A. led by Brookfield.
- Advised Sixth Street in connection with its acquisition of a majority stake in Lemon Pepper Holdings Limited.
- Advised Bridgepoint on the public-to-private acquisition of AIM-listed Eckoh plc.
Milbank
Acting on both the sponsor and seller side of private equity transactions, Milbank has considerable experience in multijurisdictional M&A, equity investments, and major disposals. The firm is especially active in the European and US markets, routinely acting for clients engaged in the education, entertainment, and food sectors. Andrej Wolf and Jordan Simpson co-head the outfit, each of whom focuses on carve-outs, restructurings, and leveraged buyouts, while James McClymont regularly advises sponsors on acquisitions and disposals. Lara Watt is highlighted for her experience in bolt-on acquisitions.
Responsables de la pratique:
Andrej Wolf; Jordan Simpson
Autres avocats clés:
James McClymont; Lara Watt
Principaux clients
Cerberus European Investments
Charterhouse Capital Partners
CVC Capital Partners
EQT
Intermediate Capital Group
Investindustrial
PAI Partners
Park Square Capital
Stirling Square Capital Partners
Strategic Value Partners
Summit Partners
Sun European Partners
The Carlyle Group
Värde Partners
Vitruvian Partners
Principaux dossiers
- Advised CVC on the disposal of its majority stake in the Hellenic Healthcare Group to PureHealth Holding PJSC in a transaction valuing the company at EUR 2.2 billion.
- Advised Acturis and its controlling shareholders, including co-founders Theo Duchen and David McDonald, on Astorg’s investment in the company.
- Advised PAI Partners on the sale of M Group Services to CVC.
Sidley Austin LLP
Highly renowned for representing private equity funds in major M&A transactions and takeover bids, Sidley Austin LLP’s practice is praised for offering ‘superior expertise’ to domestic and international clients engaged in a diverse range of industries, including infrastructure, fitness, and software. The team regularly handles equity investments and share capital transactions, led by department head Ramy Wahbeh who oversees cross-border corporate deals from London. Kaisa Kuusk focuses on strategic joint ventures, while the "incredibly adept" Adam Runcorn and the versatile adviser Jonathon Hamill are also recommended.
Responsables de la pratique:
Ramy Wahbeh
Autres avocats clés:
Kaisa Kuusk; Adam Runcorn; Jonathon Hamill
Les références
‘Sidley’s team provides superior expertise along with great communications, commercial awareness and solutions-oriented work. The practice’s ability to collaborate with clients sets it apart.’
‘Adam Runcorn and his team are incredibly adept and knowledgeable, their work ethic and responsiveness are unmatched, and they are very aware and sensitive to industry-specific commercial terms.’
Principaux clients
Various funds managed by Apollo Global Management, Inc.
Achieve Partners
Bilkul Football WBA
Great Hill Partners
J.C. Flowers & Co.
Lottomatica
Stonepeak
Principaux dossiers
Sullivan & Cromwell LLP
Handling private equity-backed acquisitions, cash offers, and equity capital raisings, Sullivan & Cromwell LLP has experience of acting for sovereign wealth funds and financial investors. Operating out of London, Karan Dinamani specialises heavily in co-investments and restructurings, Jeremy Kutner is knowledgeable in joint ventures and cross-border M&A transactions, whilst Ben Perry is also cited as a key contact. In September 2025, the team was bolstered by the arrival of Mike Francies, former London managing partner at Weil, Gotshal & Manges.
Responsables de la pratique:
Karan Dinamani
Autres avocats clés:
Mike Francies; Jeremy Kutner; Ben Perry
Principaux clients
Apax Partners
FNZ Group
Palex Medical
Annington and Terra Firma Capital Partners
FGS Global
Goldman Sachs Bank Europe
Lunate Capital
Morgan Stanley Asia Limited
P&E Investments Axiopoiisis kai Anaptyxis Akiniton Société Anonyme
Pershing Square Capital
Piper Sandler
SilverLake Partners
TABLE Holdings LP
West Street Infrastructure Partners
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Apax Partners in its recommended cash offer to acquire Norva24 Group AB, a leading player in the Underground Infrastructure Maintenance industry in Europe, for c. $660 million.
- Advised Apax Partners in its acquisition of co-controlling stakes of Palex Medical from funds advised by Fremman, which was the majority shareholder, as well as Palex management and other minority shareholders, and the acquisition by Palex Medical of Duomed from G Square Capital.
- Advised FNZ Group in its over $1 billion of equity fundraise in 2024 and further $500m of equity fundraise in 2025.
Willkie Farr & Gallagher (UK) LLP
Assisting an array of UK, European, and US sponsors and their portfolio companies, the team at Willkie Farr & Gallagher (UK) LLP routinely handles cross-border M&A transactions and preferred equity investments. The team has particular strength in the financial services and insurance industries, with practice head Gavin Gordon handling complex takeovers and buyouts. Other key figures include Claire McDaid, well-versed in carve-outs and recapitalisations; David Arnold, an expert in acquisition mandates; and Philip Coletto, whose capabilities include minority stake investment deals.
Responsables de la pratique:
Gavin Gordon
Autres avocats clés:
Claire McDaid; David Arnold; Philip Coletto; Andrew Gray; William Buchanan
Principaux clients
Aquiline Capital Partners
Atlas
Bain Capital Credit
Blantyre Capital
Briarwood Capital
CapVest Partners LLP
CVC Capital Partners
Davidson Kempner
Freshstream Investment Partners LLP
FTV Capital
Genstar Capital
IK Investment Partners
Insight Partners
Levine Leichtman Capital Partners
PAI Partners
Platinum Equity
Searchlight Capital Partners
Stanley Capital
Warburg Pincus
Hanover Investors
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Platinum Equity on the acquisition of Sunrise Medical, a world leader in advanced assistive mobility solutions, from Nordic Capital. The firm also advised Platinum on financing for the transaction.
- Advised Searchlight Capital Partners as owner of Flowbird in connection with the sale of Flowbird and in connection with re-investment of significant capital into EasyPark Group.
- Advised Insight Partners on the sale of its majority stake in AMCS, a global leader in performance and sustainability software to resource-intensive industries, to EQT Private Equity.
Baker McKenzie
Covering all elements of complex carve-outs, divestments, and take-private matters, Baker McKenzie leverages ‘strong depth across the team', working with a mix of private equity investors and major corporates. Practice head David Allen is praised for being ‘calm’ and ‘always on point’ in cross-border M&A transactions, while Karen Guch is noted for her expertise in leveraged buyouts. Justin Hutchinson is well-versed in minority investments, and Alex Lewis is a joint venture specialist.
Responsables de la pratique:
David Allen
Autres avocats clés:
Karen Guch; Justin Hutchinson; Alex Lewis; Nick Rainsford; James Adams; James Heller; Hannah Luqmani
Les références
‘Strong depth across the team. Very adept at handling a range of transactions, both at the fund and the portfolio company level. Carve-out expertise really helps this team to stand out.’
‘David Allen – calm, collected, and always on point. We trust David to handle some of our most high-profile transactions, as well as a variety of matters across our portfolio companies. He is a trusted advisor to the firm.’
‘Very cohesive team, with great market knowledge and specialist areas. Offers a private equity transactions service which rivals the top end of the US firm market, but at much more reasonable rates (and importantly, reliably comes in on budget). Also, an impressive international network which enables a seamless service when dealing with multi-cross-border deals.’
Principaux clients
APG
Astorg Partners
Bain Capital
Blackstone
BlueGem Capital Partners
Clayton Dubilier & Rice
HongShan Capital Group
KKR
Mayfair Equity
Silver Lake
Trill Impact
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Silver Lake Partners on various private equity transactions, based on our market-leading carve-out practice and expertise in the technology sector.
- Advised KKR on a range of transactions that showcase our ability to deliver high-value, high-profile, multi-jurisdictional private equity transactions.
- Advised Bain Capital on the proposed sale by Kantar Group, a leading global market research company based in London and portfolio company of Bain Capital, of Kantar Media to H.I.G. Capital.
Debevoise & Plimpton LLP
Praised by clients for its 'exceptional private equity team', Debevoise & Plimpton LLP frequently handles M&A transactions, debt financing arrangements, and co-investments. Katherine Ashton is noted for her expertise in fund restructuring work, while Dominic Blaxill specialises in joint ventures. The 'outstanding' Geoffrey Burgess has a strong track record in cross-border deals, while Alan Kartashkin is noted for his focus on work involving the TMT and aviation sectors. James Grimwood joined the firm as a partner from Goodwin in January 2025.
Responsables de la pratique:
Katherine Ashton; Raman Bet-Mansour; Dominic Blaxill; Geoffrey Burgess; Alan Kartashkin
Autres avocats clés:
James Grimwood
Les références
‘Debevoise is a leading global firm with an exceptional private equity M&A transactions team. They have the capability to advise on large, complex cross-border M&A transactions.’
‘Geoff Burges, a partner in Debevoise’s London office, is an outstanding corporate lawyer who has worked on transactions throughout the UK, Continental Europe and Africa.’
Principaux clients
Zhongzhi Enterprise Group
Lovell Minnick
Glendower Capital
Clayton, Dubilier & Rice
Apera Asset Management
HarbourVest
Evercare Group
Development Partners International
Helios Investment Partners
Prudential Financial
Triple Hold Co. Limited
Principaux dossiers
- Advised the Evercare Group (“Evercare”) regarding the equity and debt financing arrangements in connection with its sale of a majority shareholding in CARE Hospitals to private equity funds managed by Blackstone.
- Advising SI in connection with its proposed acquisition of certain UK restaurants, including the ‘Ivy’ chain of restaurants, from entrepreneur Richard Caring.
- Advised Glendower Capital, the leading private equity secondaries investment manager, in the acquisition by CVC Capital Partners plc (“CVC”) of its aggregate 40% remaining stake in Glendower Capital following CVC’s successful IPO on Euronext Amsterdam.
Dechert LLP
Boasting a strong track record in joint ventures and preferred equity investments, the ‘high-quality team’ at Dechert LLP is highly regarded for its capabilities in a diverse range of sectors, including food, telecoms, and healthcare. Operating out of London, Christopher Field and Philip Butler head the practice, each of whom specialises in disposals and corporate carve-outs. Dual-qualified (England and New York) Nick Tomlinson is recommended for his broad transactional practice and client base; Mark Evans is noted for his restructuring focus; and Sam Whittaker is recommended for his track record in sovereign wealth fund matters.
Responsables de la pratique:
Christopher Field; Philip Butler
Autres avocats clés:
Nick Tomlinson; Mark Evans; Sam Whittaker
Les références
‘Excellent client service from a high-quality team.’
‘Sam Whittaker is truly excellent (and a nice person as well).’
‘Nick Tomlinson’s move to Dechert has provided the firm with a depth of talent, experience and world-class leadership that will bolster the firm’s reputation across Private Equity and M&A.’
Principaux clients
Ares Management
Blackstone
Estancia Capital Partners
Further Global Capital Management
Gemcorp Capital Management
GIC
Graham Partners
KKR
Metric Capital Partners
MidEuropa
Warwick Capital Partners
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Ares on (i) the sale of DCS Holdings Group by way of a merger between the Daisy Group with the Wavenet Group; and (ii) a £500 million preferred equity investment from a consortium led by Searchlight Capital Partners and Ares for environmental consultancy RSK Group Limited (RSK).
- Advised GIC on its funding of Valtech’s take-private offer for Kin & Carta plc.
- Advised MidEuropa on the part sale of Mlinar to Bosqar Invest.
Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP
Fielding a ‘very skilled, very professional’ practice, Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP is highly recommended for its expertise in managing long-term investments, proposed acquisitions, and leveraged finance proceedings. Practice heads James Renahan and Christian Iwasko primarily focus on private equity transactions and distressed investments. Michelle Tong is well-versed in debt restructurings, and Priya Rupal is noted for her wide-ranging corporate practice. Other key figures include Andrew Rearick, who draws praise for his secondaries work.
Responsables de la pratique:
James Renahan; Christian Iwasko
Autres avocats clés:
Michelle Tong; Priya Rupal; Andrew Rearick; Warren Wellington; Claire Zhu; Hannah Lee
Les références
‘Great lawyers, strong knowledge of the secondaries market GP-Led market, very good service to clients.’
‘Always available, very skilled, very professional and provides the right advice.’
‘Great team which just gets the commercial prerogatives on a transaction. They do not mess about and just get things done at a high level.’
Principaux clients
TowerBrook Capital Partners (UK) LLP
IK Partners
Equistone
AEA Investors LP
CVC Secondary Partners
Feldberg Capital GmbH
Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC
Management of Reiss Group
Quilvest Capital Partners
StepStone Group
Principaux dossiers
- Acted as sole legal counsel toTowerBrook Capital Partners (UK) LLP in connection with their multi-million investmentin JSM Group ServicesLimited (“JSM”).
- Acted as lead counsel to Quilvest Capital Partners (“QCP”) on its investment in Acuiti Labs.
- Acted as counsel to Excelitas Technologies Corp, a portfolio company of private equity fund AEA Investors LP, on the sale of its aerospace and defense electronics businesses for USD $710 million in cash to Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (NYSE:TDY).
Goodwin
Advising on the full lifecycle of clients’ investments, spanning from fund formation to exits and restructurings, Goodwin routinely handles cross-border private equity transactions. The London-based practice includes Gemma Roberts, a specialist in corporate reorganisations and joint ventures, as well as Carl Bradshaw and Arvin Abraham, both of whom regularly act for private equity sponsors and portfolio companies.
Autres avocats clés:
Gemma Roberts; Carl Bradshaw; Arvin Abraham
Principaux clients
Accel-KKR
Bregal Investments
ECI Partners
Lloyds Development Capital
G Square Private Equity
Graphite Capital Management
H.I.G. Capital
Hg Capital
Intermediate Capital Group
LGT Capital
Mayfair Equity Partners
SK Capital
TA Associates
Warburg Pincus
Principaux dossiers
- Advised TA Associates on its joint investment with Novo Holdings in Biocomposites.
- Advised Hg Capital, together with its affiliated investment funds in connection with their agreement to sell, alongside Insight Partners (a minority shareholder), their entire stake in Dext Software Ltd to IRIS Software Group.
- Advised TA Associates, alongside Fortissimo, in connection with their sale of a controlling stake in Priority Software Solutions to Blackstone.
Proskauer Rose LLP
Experienced in joint ventures, divestitures, and cross-border M&A transactions, Proskauer Rose LLP is engaged by both private equity houses and portfolio companies for its ‘very committed team and bench strength’. The firm’s cross-sector spread is notable, covering the retail, financial services, and insurance spheres. London-based practice head Steven Davis specialises in buyouts and strategic mergers. Richard Bull focuses on minority investments, and Andrew Wingfield is highlighted for his track record in disposals.
Responsables de la pratique:
Steven Davis
Autres avocats clés:
Richard Bull; Andrew Wingfield; Rob Day; Sylvain Dhennin; Rebecca Villarreal; Liam Arthur; Adam Creed
Les références
‘Very committed team and bench strength. Always able to cut through complexity and offer constructive solutions. Feel like an extension of the deal team more so than other law firms we’ve used.’
‘Andrew Wingfield is one of the best in the business. Not only incredibly technical but also will go above and beyond to serve the client’s interest on the project or deal.’
Principaux clients
AnaCap
Cap10 Partners
HGGC
ICG
Ares Management
Investcorp
Lion Capital
Lovell Minnick Partners LLC
Oaktree Capital Management
Synova
The Friedkin Group
7RIDGE
Copper Street Capital
Exponent Private Equity
Pollen Street Capital
Charterhouse Capital Partners
Corsair Capital
Lee Equity Partners
Tikehau Capital
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Lee Equity Partners on its USD$1 billion investment partnership and majority investment with Cooper Parry.
- Advised The Friedkin Group in relation to the acquisition of Everton Football Group by its subsidiary Roundhouse Capital Holdings Limited.
- Advised Intermediate Capital Group on its partnership investment into Lomond, a leading UK lettings and estate agent platform.
Slaughter and May
Counting private equity houses and major sponsors among its key clients, Slaughter and May has considerable experience in sales of issued share capital and take-private transactions. Harry Bacon and Filippo de Falco jointly lead the team; Harry is noted for his focus on equity investments, while Filippo is an expert in multijurisdictional M&A. Aleezeh Liaqat is recommended for her expertise in disposals and public takeovers.
Responsables de la pratique:
Harry Bacon; Filippo de Falco
Autres avocats clés:
Aleezeh Liaqat
Principaux clients
Fortress Investment Group
Pollen Street Capital
Arrow Global Group
Inflexion
BlackRock’s Diversified Infrastructure Group
Blackstone Real Estate
NaMa Capital Advisors
Bain Capital
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Fortress Investment Group on the take-private of Loungers plc.
- Advised Blackstone on the sale of its retail housebuilding business, St Modwen Homes, to Miller Homes Limited.