Firms To Watch: Private equity: transactions - mid-market deals (up to £500m)

With Debbie Jackson at the helm, the Leeds-based Walker Morris LLP practice is highly regarded for its expertise in private equity add-on transactions and reinvestments. The team routinely acts on the buyer, seller, and sponsor sides.

Private equity: transactions - mid-market deals (up to £500m) in London

Addleshaw Goddard

With an extensive track record in overseeing multi-jurisdictional acquisitions - primarily on the buyer-side - Addleshaw Goddard displays vast cross-sector expertise across the software, aviation, and healthcare fields. The firm is highly regarded for its assistance on the transfer of funds into portfolio companies and management of complex strategic partnerships involving private equity houses. Operating out of London, Paul Medlicott spearheads the practice, mainly acting for sponsors and management teams on all forms of corporate transactions, whilst Yunus Seedat is highly knowledgeable in the media and retail spheres. Gemma Phillips is an investment specialist, Graham Cross is highlighted for his corporate restructuring focus, and Nathan Pearce predominantly concentrates on disposals and joint ventures. Marc Field is well versed in advising on bolt-on acquisitions, and both Carly Gulliver and Sharon Skipper-Gordon are also noted as key.

Responsables de la pratique:

Paul Medlicott


Autres avocats clés:

Yunus Seedat; Gemma Phillips; Graham Cross; Marc Field; Nathan Pearce; Sharon Skipper-Gordon; Robbie Hay; Liam Gasior


Principaux clients

Standard Life Assurance Limited


British Land


Travelodge Hotels Limited


Marks & Spencer


Fortive Corporation


Savills Investment Management


Schroders


Columbia Threadneedle


Battersea Power Station Development Limited


Almcor (Croyton Asset Holding Limited)


HB Reavis


Mount Anvil


Schroders Ground Rent Income Fund


Patrizia


JTRE


Watkin Jones


University of Greenwich


Vita


Hub Group


Grainger PLC


Highbridge Properties


Addington Capital


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Maizelands Limited, Arringford Limited and Scottish Widows Unit Funds Limited on a complex, high-value water ingress claim in the High-Court.
  • Advising some of the largest residential funds in the market on all aspects of the Building Safety Act, including on innovative ways to manage risk and liability while operating their businesses responsibly for the benefit of investors and tenants alike.
  • Acting for a landlord of an iconic mixed-use development in proceedings issued in the First-Tier Tribunal by 247 long leasehold owners challenging service charges since 2016.

DLA Piper

Leveraging strong cross-border capabilities when handling private equity-backed M&A transactions and acquisitions of issued share capital, DLA Piper routinely advises underwriters, sponsors, and management teams. The practice is especially accustomed to acting for major investors in fast-growth tech corporations, regularly spanning across European, North American, and Asian jurisdictions. The team leader Ed Griffiths heavily specialises in group reorganisations and corporate transactions, Tim Wright is knowledgeable in private equity-backed buyouts, while Piero Carbone supports fund managers in the real estate and hospitality industries. John Pryor primarily concentrates on exits, while James Kerrigan operates from Manchester and is an expert in equity investments. Christopher Wilson consistently counsels institutional investors. All lawyers are London-based unless explicitly mentioned otherwise.

Responsables de la pratique:

Ed Griffiths


Autres avocats clés:

Tim Wright; Piero Carbone; John Pryor; James Kerrigan; Christopher Wilson; Philip Allenby; Danny Westmoreland; Danny McMann


Principaux clients

Aonic


Beech Tree Private Equity


Blackstone


Bluegem


Bregal Milestone


The Carlyle Group


Duke Street Capital


Elliott Advisors


EMK Capital


Fremman


Encore Capital


EQT Ventures


Graphite Capital


Gresham House


H.I.G. European Capital Partners


Inflexion Private Equity Partners


Intermediate Capital Group


Lloyds Development Capital


MidEuropa


Pollen St Capital


Renovus Capital


Symphony Technology Group


Synova


Acolin Holding AG


Airties


Analysys Mason Limited


Ascot Lloyd


Butlins Skyline Limited


Element Materials Technology


IGT Holding


Kantar Group


Miller Homes


OpenHealth Communications


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised MidEuropa on the acquisition of a controlling stake in FAMAR, the pharmaceutical contract development and manufacturing organisation (CDMO), from ECM Partners and Metric Capital Partners.
  • Assisted Synova on the sale of its portfolio company Avantra (formerly Syslink AG) to Resurgens Technology Partners (Resurgens).
  • Advised BlueGem Capital Partners on the sale of Beautynova, a leading global professional haircare platform, to PAI Partners.

Goodwin

Mainly focusing upon the healthcare, financial services, and tech sectors, Goodwin has extensive knowledge in complex buyouts, cross-border M&A, and fund formation issues. Additionally, the team has experience in assisting private equity funds with the acquisition of issued share capital and purchases of minority stakes in companies. Located in London, Richard Lever mainly focuses upon corporate restructurings and leveraged buyouts, Gemma Roberts is a joint venture and carve-out specialist, while Carl Bradshaw acts for management teams and investment funds. Tessa Agar stands out for her insight in venture capital investments, and both Arvin Abraham and Ian Keefe are highlighted for financing and divestment knowledge. George Weavil is also cited as an integral member of the outfit.

Autres avocats clés:

Richard Lever; Gemma Roberts; Carl Bradshaw; Tessa Agar; Arvin Abraham; Ian Keefe; George Weavil


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 in connection with its acquisition and investment in Agilio Software, a UK based software solutions business designed for hospitals and dental practices for the purposes of regulatory compliance, from August Equity and certain other minority shareholders.
  • Advised McWin Capital Partners on its acquisition of the entire issued share capital of Sticks ‘n’ Sushi Holdings A/S, a popular sushi-based restaurant chain with multiple restaurants in Denmark, the UK and Germany.
  • Advised Intermediate Capital Group and portfolio company Broadstone on its strategic growth investment from Lovell Minnick, a private equity firm focused on investments in financial services, business services and financial technology companies.

Macfarlanes LLP

Macfarlanes LLP routinely advises private equity sponsors on mid-market buyout transactions, along with assisting on minority investments and strategic partnerships. The multi-jurisdictional capabilities are extensive- primarily including European and North American jurisdictions- and enabling the outfit to handle complex cross-border M&A. Spearheading the practice from London, Alex Edmondson specialises in sponsor-led buyouts and sale processes, and Stephen Drewitt regularly supports institutional investors and private equity funds. Jessica Adam concentrates on take privates, Alexander Green is well versed in fund secondary transactions, whilst Stephen Pike is an M&A specialist. Nicholas Page is highly regarded for his knowledge in private capital transactions, and Adam Campbell acts for asset managers and large corporates predominantly.

Responsables de la pratique:

Alex Edmondson


Autres avocats clés:

Stephen Drewitt; Jessica Adam; Alexander Green; Stephen Pike; Nicholas Page; Adam Campbell


Principaux clients

Alchemy


Allen & Overy


Arcus Infrastructure Partners


Charlesbank Capital Partners LLC


Duke Street


Epiris


Evelyn Partners


Exponent Private Equity


Graphite Capital


J.C. Flowers & Co


Kantar Media


Mayfair Equity Partners


Partners Capital Investment Group


Preqin


Seven Investment Management/Caledonia


team.blue


Zellis


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Preqin Holding Limited, a leading independent provider of private markets data, on the sale of its entire issued share capital to an affiliate of BlackRock, Inc for £2.55bn.
  • Advised Evelyn Partners (ultimately controlled by Permira and Warbug Pincus) on the sale of its professional services business to funds advised by Apax Partners.
  • Advised its long-standing client, J. C. Flowers & Co., the private investment firm dedicated to investing globally in the financial services industry, in relation to its consortium arrangements with TowerBrook Capital Partners and Railsr shareholders (“Consortium”) on the all-cash offer by that Consortium for Equals Group plc (“Equals”), in a transaction that will combine Equals (a scalable payment platforms provider) with Railsr (an embedded finance platform) to accelerate both businesses’ performance whilst delivering integration synergies.

Taylor Wessing LLP

Specialising in handling multi-jurisdictional M&A transactions and complex investments within the TMT, automotive, and manufacturing fields, Taylor Wessing LLP is highly regarded for acting on both the sponsor and buyer sides. The firm showcases vast expertise in acquisitions of issued share capital and mid-market buyout transactions, with the London-based practice head Edward Waldron routinely assisting founders and management teams. James Goold is a private equity expert, Johnny Bethell is well versed in acting for major funds, whilst Emma Danks co-heads the global corporate and M&A group. The outfit showcases particular strength in the tech, life sciences, and health sectors primarily.

Responsables de la pratique:

Edward Waldron


Autres avocats clés:

James Goold; Jonny Bethell; Emma Danks


Principaux clients

Inflexion Private Equity


Bridgepoint


Caledonia Investments


Graphite Capital


Sullivan Street Partners


Rockpool Investments


Verdane


Alcuin Capital


August Equity


Rutland Partners


MML Capital


Centralis


Management teams (including Synthon and SER)


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Inflexion on its acquisition of, and investment into, FDMUK Limited (« FDM »), a provider of telecoms market share, pricing and proposition data across Europe.
  • Advised Bridgepoint on its investment in Identicare, a UK-based pet microchipping and pet owner-focused services company.
  • Advised Caledonia Investments plc on its acquisition of a majority stake in the European division of Air-Serv, a leading designer and manufacturer of air, vacuum and jet wash machines.

Dentons

Covering a diverse range of private equity work, spanning from cross-border M&A to follow-on investments, Dentons is heavily praised for its ‘client service’. Routinely acting on the sponsor-backed side of corporate transactions, the firm is especially well versed in the tourism and energy fields. The London-based practice is spearheaded by Darren Acres and Jayne Schnider, whilst Nicholas Plant is an expert in disposals and share sales. Stephen Levy mainly acts for private equity houses and management teams, and Joseph Altendorff is a corporate finance specialist. James Davison concentrates on co-investments and reorganisations, and Joseph Collingwood often advises portfolio companies.

Responsables de la pratique:

Darren Acres; Jayne Schnider


Autres avocats clés:

Nicholas Plant; Stephen Levy; Joseph Altendorff; James Davison; Joseph Collingwood


Les références

‘Client Service; Industry Knowledge.’



Principaux clients

Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co Partners LLP (KKR)


CK Holdings Co., Ltd, the KKR owned holding company of Calsonic Kansei


KPS Capital Partners


Scottish Equity Partners


Centerbridge


Blackstone


Stonepeak Infrastructure Partners


Martin Moller (billionaire founder of Nordic Aviation Capital)


Graphite Capital


Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan


Astorg Mid-Cap


Canada Pension Plan Investment Board


HIG Capital


TA Associates


BNF Capital


Leapfrog


Temasek


Platinum Equity


Partners Group


Peak Rock Capital


Verod


AfricInvest


Sun Capital


MCI


Gilde Healthcare


Equistone Capital Partners


Aurelius


Lindsay Goldberg


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised this globally active Private Equity house on its bid for ready to bake, pastry manufacturer Jus-Rol.
  • Advised the eSky Group, the owner of a leading travel platform in CEE, backed by private equity house Metric Capital, on its acquisition of Thomas Cook Tourism (UK) Company Limited from Fosun Tourism Group.
  • Advise on its acquisition of the INEOS Composites business from the INEOS Group in 11 jurisdictions.

Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP

Acting on both the buyer and sponsor sides of private equity transactions consistently, the Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP team is well versed in handling complex investment rounds and public-to-private takeovers. The firm is especially active in the infrastructure, renewable energy, and cyber fields, with the lawyers routinely acting on behalf of international private equity houses and domestic corporations. From London, James Trevis heads the outfit, specialising in cross-border acquisitions and management buyouts. Birmingham’s Louise Finnie is a refinancing expert, and Manchester-based Lizzy Tindall mainly assists investors and management teams. Also in London, Ceri-Ann McGraa has expertise in joint ventures and Richard Moulton concentrates on M&A and private equity deals. Barri Mendelsohn and Mike Birkett are also highlighted as integral members.

Responsables de la pratique:

James Trevis


Autres avocats clés:

Louise Finnie; Lizzy Tindall; Ceri-Ann McGraa; Richard Moulton; Barri Mendelsohn; Mike Birkett


Principaux clients

H2 Equity Partners


Livingbridge


Inflexion


CBPE Partners


Baird Capital Partners Europe


Sovereign Capital


LDC


Aurelius


EMK


Arcline


Eqiustone


Elaghmore


Pollen Street Capital


Bowmark


Silverfleet


Platinum Equity


Beech Tree Private Equity


Three Hills Capital


Grain Management


Principaux dossiers


Jones Day

With the London-based trio of Liam Bonamy, Julian Runnicles, and Vica Irani at the helm, Jones Day specialises in private equity buyout transactions, multi-jurisdictional acquisitions, and corporate reorganisations. The lawyers draw upon strong cross-border capabilities, especially when overseeing divestments and joint ventures for clients in the manufacturing, healthcare, and financial services industries. Bonamy primarily concentrates on representing corporates and management teams, Giles Elliott covers a broad range of PE transactions, and Irani is an expert in the infrastructure sphere. Runnicles focuses on PIPEs and strategic alliances, and Robert Harris is highlighted for his work in mid-market acquisitions. Piero Carbone is also singled out as a key contact.

Responsables de la pratique:

Liam Bonamy; Julian Runnicles; Vica Irani


Autres avocats clés:

Giles Elliott; Robert Harris; Piero Carbone


Principaux clients

Aurelius Equity Opportunities


Inflexion Private Equity


Ares Capital


Stellex Capital


EagleTree Capital


The Riverside Company


True Capital


Kharis Capital


Arsenal Capital


Macquarie Asset Management


Principaux dossiers


Osborne Clarke LLP

Hailed as both ‘very accessible’ and ‘very practical in approach’, Osborne Clarke LLP is highly knowledgeable in the tech and media fields, primarily handling bolt-on acquisitions and exits. The firm is particularly accustomed to overseeing investment transactions spanning across the North American and European markets. Operating out of Bristol, team lead Alistair Francis is an expert in M&A transactions, London’s Pippa Byrne concentrates on management buyouts and joint ventures, whilst Alisdair Livingstone acts for a range of sponsors, portfolio companies, and management teams. Mike Freer is noted for his equity release insight, and Leanne Wright is highlighted as a private equity deal specialist.

Responsables de la pratique:

Alistair Francis


Autres avocats clés:

Pippa Byrne; Alisdair Livingstone; Mike Freer; Leanne Wright


Les références

‘The team is very accessible and very practical in approach. Always responsive and accommodating.’

‘Knowledgeable and easy to work with.’

‘I find OC to strike the right balance between technical legal advice and practical commercial reasoning with a view to finding a path through negotiations. They have consistently delivered creative solutions to complex problems, even under tight timeframes.’

‘Alistair Francis is a fantastic partner – his advice and insight makes him a core part of our extended deal team when working together. He is also easy to work with and unflappable, which is very valuable!’

Principaux clients

Alcuin Capital Partners


Apiary Capital


August Equity


BGF


Cadence


CBPE


Fidelio


Growth Capital Partners


Kester Capital


Palladian


Pollen Street Capital


Queen’s Park Equity


RJD Partners


Synova


Tenzing


Tresmares Capital


Waterland


Coolr


Focus Group


Stark Software


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised BGF, Joel Stark, Alex Warren and the other vendors on the sale of a minority interest to Macquarie.
  • Advised Focus Group in a deal which made the company the latest addition to the ranks of Britain’s private company unicorns, with a new US$1 billion valuation.
  • Advised Kester Capital on their exit from the Atec Group to Perwyn.

Pinsent Masons LLP

Predominantly focusing on the seller-side, the ‘pragmatic, collaborative, and highly responsive’ practice at Pinsent Masons LLP specialises in private equity investments and sales of issued share capital matters. The team has a strong track record in cross-border private equity-backed M&A transactions, with a special focus upon the tech and business services fields. Based in London, Edward Stead leads the outfit, being highly knowledgeable in handling bolt-on acquisitions and management buyouts, Manchester’s Kieran Toal acts on behalf of investee companies, and Birmingham’s Joanne Ellis is an expert in refinancings and disposals. Also in Manchester, Amie Norris advises management teams and large corporates, London’s Tom Leman routinely supports founders, and Glasgow’s Barry McCaig is labelled as ‘highly experienced’.

Responsables de la pratique:

Edward Stead


Autres avocats clés:

Kieran Toal; Joanne Ellis; Amie Norris; Tom Leman; Barry McCaig; Lisa Early; Josh Willis; Ben Elliott; Rob Cunningham; Anthony Hollands


Les références

‘Pinsent Masons stands out through its deeply embedded sector focus, which allows its teams to offer genuinely commercial advice that reflects a strong understanding of clients’ industries and strategic goals. The practice is not just technically capable but also pragmatic, collaborative, and highly responsive, delivering work in a way that is aligned with how modern businesses operate.’

‘Clients are often drawn to the team’s consistent strength in complex, cross-border matters, as well as its depth across key areas such as corporate, regulatory, disputes, and finance. The practice has a particularly strong reputation in sectors like infrastructure, energy, life sciences, and technology, where it brings together legal specialists with industry knowledge, helping clients anticipate and address issues before they become obstacles.’

‘What also sets the team apart is its strong international network, supported by a unified culture that encourages knowledge-sharing and cross-office cooperation. This makes it easy for clients to access cohesive advice across jurisdictions, without duplication or delay.’

Principaux clients

MML Capital Partners


Sovereign Capital Partners


Waterland


Equistone


Livingbridge


Inflexion Private Equity


Westbridge


Blixt


Scottish Equity Partner


Bridges Fund Management


Apposite Capital


Synova


Kerry Hinton and the other selling shareholders of the HealthNet Homecare group of companies


Ultimate Performance


Shakleton Advisors (Formerly Skerritts Consultants)


M Group Services


Gatti Pavesi Bianchi Ludovici


CALA Group


The Tofoo Co


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised M Group Services, the leading provider of essential infrastructure services in the UK and Ireland, on its sale to private equity house CVC.
  • Advised the shareholders (WestBridge PE and management team) of Eque2 on its sale to Bowmark Capital.
  • Advised the shareholders of Stowe Family Law, including Livingbridge 6, on the successful sale of the group to a newly incorporated group backed by InvestCorp.

Squire Patton Boggs

Showcasing vast expertise in private equity investments and management buyouts, Squire Patton Boggs fields a ‘strong team of industry experts’, primarily focused on the infrastructure, energy, and tech industries. The outfit draws upon strong multi-jurisdictional capabilities, mainly handling M&A transactions and sales of issued share capital. From London, Paul Mann heads the private equity division, primarily focusing on all types of corporate work. Ben Squires is described as a ‘standout partner’, and Charles Leeming concentrates on global carve-outs and joint ventures. Splitting his time between London and Manchester, James Fitzgibbon counsels entrepreneurs and management teams, whilst Julian Thatcher is praised for being ‘commercial and pragmatic’.

 

 

Responsables de la pratique:

Paul Mann


Autres avocats clés:

Ben Squires; Charles Leeming; James Fitzgibbon; Julian Thatcher; Matt Canipa; Mona Mojtabavi


Les références

‘Highly responsive, commercial team with strength in depth. Full-service firm in support.’

‘Julian Thatcher – highly responsive and engaged; commercial and pragmatic; transparent communicator; very easy to work with.’

‘Strong team of industry experts and good relationship focused individuals. Team was able to adapt to a complicated deal structure and friendly Founder owned business dynamic. Team built a strong relationship with all stakeholders.’

Principaux clients

ECI Partners LLP


LDC


Growth Capital Partners


Inflexion


NorthEdge


BGF


Perwyn


Capital D


HIG


H2


Endless


Copilot Capital


Baird


Clear Group


Ipsum


Translation People


Orbis


MISS Group


Synova


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised the Shepherd Building Group on the sale of Portakabin Limited, a leading provider of modular building infrastructure, to Antin Infrastructure Partners.
  • Advised the selling shareholders of the Lintbells which is a globally recognised leader in pet supplements on the sale to Vetnique Labs.
  • Advised on the investment in TAG, the market leading, international, high-touch travel management company to the entertainment and corporate markets.

Travers Smith LLP

Travers Smith LLP has extensive experience in high-value M&A transactions and carve-out investments, often spanning across North American and European jurisdictions. The team has a strong track record on the buyer-side, regularly representing shareholders and consortiums in complex private equity-backed acquisitions and share sales, with London’s William Yates spearheading the outfit. Yates advises management teams and founders, while Adam Orr covers leveraged buyouts and co-investments. Emma Havas is highly knowledgeable in recapitalisations and public-to-privates, whilst Tom Hartwright is also cited as key. The firm is especially active in the tech, maritime, and pharma industries.

 

Responsables de la pratique:

William Yates


Autres avocats clés:

Adam Orr; Emma Havas; Tom Hartwright


Les références

‘Very strong associate / senior associates. Very commercial and strong negotiators.’

‘Arguably the best team for private equity management advice. Adam Orr leads a great team which has the experience to know what is market standard and how the market is moving to ensure management teams, and their interests are protected.’

‘A deep understanding of the business and the drivers of value creation which management teams participate in. Therefore, Travers know what to protect and what can be given up in a deal negotiation.’

Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Sixth Street Partners, a leading global investment firm, and Patron Capital, the pan-European institutional investor focused on property investments, on the acquisition of the major UK house builder CALA Group from Legal & General Group plc by Ferguson Bidco Limited, an entity owned by funds managed by Sixth Street and Patron.
  • Advised Inflexion on its carve-out investment in GlobalData Plc’s Healthcare division.
  • Advised Ascential plc on the sale of its product design business (« WGSN ») to funds advised by Apax Partners.

Akin

Utilising an ‘incredibly joined up’ approach, Akin covers the full spectrum of private equity transactions, with a special focus on cross-border acquisitions, strategic investments, and delistings. The firm is highly regarded for its cross-sector expertise- especially in the energy and tech fields- and overseeing private equity-backed M&A transactions. From London, Sebastian Rice and Shaun Lascelles co-head the practice, both specialising in international joint ventures, whilst David Sewell advises on a variety of secondary transactions. Simon Rootsey acts for sovereign wealth funds and investors from his bases in London and Abu Dhabi, Justin Stock is highly knowledgeable in IPOs, and David Bresnick and Stephen Rosen are also cited as integral team members.

Responsables de la pratique:

Sebastian Rice; Shaun Lascelles


Autres avocats clés:

David Sewell; Simon Rootsey; Justin Stock; David Bresnick; Stephen Rosen; Dan Wayte


Les références

‘Working with Akin is very straightforward. Akin’s corporate and finance practices are incredibly joined up – we trust the Akin team to advise us on our most complex transactions and situations. The advice we receive is always seamless, and focused on helping us meet our commercial objectives. The team’s responsiveness is second to none, and they have helped us navigate seemingly impossible issues. Akin’s subject matter experts on complex regulatory, antitrust and trade issues are also very commercially minded and plugged into deals.’

‘We work with David Sewell regularly – he provides unparalleled service as well as commercial and pragmatic advice. David is super responsive and quickly marshals the resources needed to get our deals over the line. Having spent a considerable amount of time in-house, David also understands our areas of focus. We trust David to help us deal with our most complex deals and issues.

 

Principaux clients

The Carlyle Group


Mubadala


Helios Investment Partners LLP


LetterOne (L1) Investment Management


Vitol SA


Susquehanna Growth Equity (SGE)


Princeton Equity Group


Pharmakon Advisors


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised LetterOne (L1) on an agreement to transfer the majority of Wintershall Dea’s non-Russia related upstream business to London-listed Harbour Energy plc, the U.K.’s largest oil and gas producer, for a total consideration of $11.2 billion.
  • Advised Intrum AB, one of Europe’s largest non-performing loan servicers, in its agreement to sell a material portion of its investment portfolio to affiliates of Cerberus Capital Management L.P. for more than €1 billion.
  • Advised The Carlyle Group on its strategic investment, alongside Ares Management Credit Funds (Ares), in leading European online solutions provider, Your.World.

Ashurst

Acting on behalf of domestic and international companies in the tech, life sciences, and financial services industries, the Ashurst team is highly renowned for handling private equity-backed M&A transactions and sales of portfolio corporations. The lawyers are well versed in advising on corporate transactions spanning across various jurisdictions, regularly assisting investment management funds and consortiums. In London, Markjan Van Schaardenburgh spearheads the outfit, concentrating on corporate restructurings, while Jacob Gold oversees complex investments. Dallan Pitman mainly focuses on the infrastructure and energy fields, supporting clients on joint venture arrangements

Responsables de la pratique:

Markjan van Schaardenburgh


Autres avocats clés:

Jacob Gold; Dallan Pitman


Principaux clients

Altor Equity Partners AB


Atlas Merchant Capital


Axiom Equity Partners LLP


Actis


Antin Infrastructure Partners


Basalt Infrastructure Partners LLP


BlackRock


Brookfield


Cavendish Capital


CK Infrastructure Holdings Limited


CVC Credit Partners Investment Management Limited


CPT Capital


Cevian Capital Limited


Dalmore Capital Limited


Duke Street Capital Limited


Equitix


Generation Capital Ltd.


Goldman Sachs International


General Atlantic


Hero Inc Limited


Inflexion Private Equity Partners LLP


Infrabridge Investors (UK) Limited


Intermediate Capital Investments Limited


InfraRed Capital Partners


I Squared Capital Advisors (UK) LLP


Lendlease


Oaktree Capital Management


Polus Capital Management


Pioneer Point Partners LLP


Swiss Life Asset Management


Symphony Capital Group


Tritax EuroBox plc


Vontobel Holding AG


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Duke Street, a prominent private equity investor, on two parallel transactions in the ostomy care business: 1) on the acquisition of ForLife Group from GHD, a portfolio company of Nordic Capital, and renowned for its specialization in the development, manufacture, and distribution of medical devices, and with a particular focus on ostomy care; 2) on the acquisition of the ostomy sale and distribution business from Trio Healthcare Limited (Trio), including the supply of stoma skin care and ostomy products and related assets, which will be integrated in the ForLife Group.
  • Advised General Atlantic, a leading global growth investor, on its entry into a definitive agreement to acquire Actis, a leading global investor in sustainable infrastructure.
  • Advised Oaktree Capital and Specialist Lending Ltd t/a Duologi on the sale of a portfolio of performing and non-performing consumer loan assets (comprising short-term loans and home improvement loans) to Arrow Global.

CMS

Fielding a team of specialists in the manufacturing, healthcare, and real estate sectors, CMS is labelled as ‘highly effective’ in handling the sales of listed and private companies to private equity funds. With solid knowledge in managing cross-border acquisitions and investments, the team is co-led by the ‘excellent’ Narinder Jugpal and Martin Treagus. Jugpal is highly regarded for advising private equity sponsors, Treagus supports financial investors and management teams, and Valentina Santambrogio is cited for her telecoms and tech industry insight. Tom Jameson concentrates on buyouts and spin-outs, and both the ‘exceptional’ Stephen Kilshaw and Ben Booker-Moore are also highlighted as key.

Responsables de la pratique:

Narinder Jugpal; Martin Treagus


Autres avocats clés:

Valentina Santambrogio; Tom Jameson; Ben Booker-Moore; Stephen Kilshaw; Ben McParland


Les références

‘Corporate are highly effective at managing the process and all other disciplines go through them, eg funds, debt etc. I find this seamless and much more efficient than with other firms. There are no compromised disciplines, the breadth and depth are great.’

‘Stephen Kilshaw is exceptional. His retentive memory is perfect and he is both creative and proactive. He thinks ahead anticipating problems and coming up with solutions.’

‘Very commercial PE team. Narinder Jugpal remains very good.’

Principaux clients

Horizon Capital


Synova LLP


Phoenix Equity Partners


TDR Capital


Ocean 14 Capital


August Equity


Vision Invest


Queens Park Equity


Three Hills Capital


CBPE


AnaCap Financial Partners


Bowmark Capital


BGF


L&G Asset Management


Patron Capital


Providence Equity Partners


Mayfair Equity Partners


Oakley Capital


Limerston Capital


Swiss Life Asset Management


Horizon Capital


Synova LLP


Phoenix Equity Partners


TDR Capital


Ocean 14 Capital


August Equity


Vision Invest


Queens Park Equity


Three Hills Capital


CBPE


AnaCap Financial Partners


Bowmark Capital


BGF


L&G Asset Management


Patron Capital


Providence Equity Partners


Mayfair Equity Partners


Oakley Capital


Limerston Capital


Swiss Life Asset Management


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised August Equity and management on the auction sale of Agilio Software to Five Arrows and TA Associates.
  • Advised TDR Capital on its investment into the Jollyes business and the establishment of a management incentive plan.
  • Advised long-standing client, Superstruct Entertainment, and its management team on the sale to KKR.

Hogan Lovells International LLP

Detailed as a ‘excellent team’ with a ‘highly specialised approach’, Hogan Lovells International LLP routinely represents private equity houses in domestic and cross-border M&A, alongside strategic investments and management buyouts. The team’s cross-sector focus is vast, ranging from tech and energy to entertainment and insurance, with the head Ed Harris being praised as ‘well-informed’. Joining him in London, James Cross concentrates on private equity transactions, while Leanne Moezi is knowledgeable in secondary acquisitions. John Connell is well versed in exits for major private equity clients, and John Livesey is also cited as a key contact.

Responsables de la pratique:

Ed Harris


Autres avocats clés:

James Cross; Leanne Moezi; John Connell; John Livesey; Simon Grimshaw; Cees Brouwer; Anthony Doolittle; Charlotte Monk; Lily Wu


Les références

‘We had an incredibly tight time frame with operating entities in several jurisdictions. Included in the DD requirements were complex relative to the size of the transaction with ongoing litigation in several countries which had to be examined, risk analyzed and indemnities carefully structured.’

‘Excellent team, highly collaborative, very well informed and current on key topics, highly valued partnership and advice, commercial and efficient.’

‘John Connell – valued and trusted partner and adviser, deep knowledge of my business and priorities, highly commercial, able to provide clear, actionable and proactive advice.’

‘The team has a highly specialised approach to LP secondary transactions, combining industry-leading partners with highly dependable associates and juniors. The combination of responsiveness, speed and precision Hogan Lovells strike is of a rare level. We recommend them to 100% of our clients, hoping that we get to work with them.’

‘Leanne Moezi is a true superhero, she is Batman. Not only is she incredibly knowledgeable and constantly keeping updated of new developments from a legal perspective, she has a unique ability to plain-English important and difficult concepts. She sets the tone for transactions, her team and the clients. Lily Wu, her superstar Associate, is Robin. She knows secondary transactions inside out, has an incredible attention to detail and an infinite tank.’

‘The team are far more flexible and kinder in the way they communicate to counterparties, which has helped for more constructive and quicker progress on processes.’

‘Hogan Lovells have a strong team working on secondaries.’

‘Ed Harris – well-informed and strong negotiator.’

Principaux clients

CVC Capital Partners


Soho Square Capital


Astatine Investment Partners


Oaktree Capital Management


Apis Partners


Literacy Capital plc


Qatar Insurance Company


Supponor


Sales-i


Z100 Community Limited


Wanda


Aurelius / Filtrona Group Holdings Limited


KSL Capital Partners


Centerbridge


Patron


Ventiga


Synova


August Equity


Piper


Committed Advisors


Eurazeo


Grosvenor Capital Management


Hayfin


Montana Capital Partners


Pantheon


Stepstone


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised CVC, which has invested alongside KKR to support Superstruct Entertainment Group in its next phase of development as one of the world’s premier live entertainment groups.
  • Advised Pantheon and Eurazeo as lead investors on Astorg’s €1.4bn continuation fund to support portfolio company Normec, a leading provider of testing, inspection, certification and compliance services, employing over 5,000 people across 6 European countries.
  • Advised Soho Square Capital and the other shareholders of Assured Data Protection on an investment by Oakley Capital; and on its investments in Newmarket Holidays and Live Manage Facilitate.

Mayer Brown International LLP

With solid expertise in advising consortiums in cross-border M&A and funding rounds, Mayer Brown International LLP is described as ‘really great’ by the private equity houses and high-growth tech companies it represents. On the sponsor-side, the firm is highly experienced in handling the sales of corporations to private-equity institutions, with the London-based head James West being an expert in mid-market buyouts and corporate transactions. Tarun Patel supports clients with the full life cycle of their investment strategies, including primary and secondary buyouts, whilst Electra Callan is hailed as a ‘first-class lawyer’ for her work with portfolio companies and investors. Daniel Williams is also highlighted as a key contact, and James Beattie also comes recommended.

Responsables de la pratique:

James West


Autres avocats clés:

Tarun Patel; Electra Callan; Daniel Williams; James Beattie


Les références

‘Expertise -Experience- Thoughtfulness- Collegiality’

Electra Callan- superb, both proactive and immediately reactive in her counsel.’

‘Really great M&A advisers – always available, super flexible, and sensible billing.’

Principaux clients

STAR Capital


Marlin Equity Partners


Keensight Capital


CBPE Capital


Oakley Capital


Sun Capital Partners


Vitruvian


Omni Partners


ACS Group


WEPA Hygieneprodukte GmbH


EMK Capital


Growth Catalyst Partners


Qodea


Consortium of angel investors including Simon Moyle, Mike Connolley and others


Sullivan Street


Averna


Epiris


Mediawan


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised a consortium led by STAR Capital Partnership LLP on successfully acquiring V.Group from Advent International.
  • Assisted CBPE Capital, a leader in midmarket UK investment, on the sale of Perspective.
  • Advised Keensight Capital on an exclusivity agreement to acquire a majority stake in MetaCompliance.

Paul Hastings LLP

Paul Hastings LLP is highly knowledgeable in counselling private equity investors and global corporations on all aspects of sponsor-side M&A, joint ventures, and co-investments. The primary sectors of focus are automotive, insurance, and tech, with the firm’s lawyers being highly accustomed in handling cross-border transactions. In London, team leader Anu Balasubramanian specialises in leveraged buyouts and portfolio matters, Jamie Holdoway concentrates on divestments and management equity plans, while the ’excellent’ Tom Cartwright is an expert in private equity investments predominantly.

Responsables de la pratique:

Anu Balasubramanian


Autres avocats clés:

Jamie Holdoway; Tom Cartwright


Les références

‘Paul Hastings has a superior reputation in its market and the elegance and tenacity of its lawyers on transactions is both the source of its strength and the reason for their leadership position in the market.’

‘The standout partner is Tom Cartwright: his market insight is matched only by his excellent legal expertise. Tom manages to maintain a whole-transaction perspective whilst also ensuring important issues are addressed for the latent and express needs of the client. He is good-natured and easy to deal with, whilst being the toughest of negotiators on his client’s behalf.’

‘Very strong.’

Principaux clients

Oakley Capital


Francisco Partners


Abry Partners


NSM Insurance


KKR


WE Soda


Teamviewer


Options Technology


Symphony Technology Group


May River Capital


VINCI Airports


City Football Group


STG Partners


PSP Investments


Principaux dossiers


Reed Smith LLP

Covering both the seller and buyer-side of private equity transactions- spanning from sales of majority stakes to leveraged buyouts- Reed Smith LLP is highly regarded for its ‘good technical knowledge’ and ‘hardworking’ ethos. Leveraging strong cross-border capabilities with North American, European, and Asian jurisdictions, the firm has a strong track record in the TMT and healthcare fields predominantly. The practice is co-headed from London by Philip Taylor and Tom Whelan, each specialising in take privates, M&A transactions and complex co-investments. Sam Webster is knowledgeable in disposals and bolt-on acquisitions, and Ravi Pattani is a corporate law expert.

Responsables de la pratique:

Philip Taylor; Tom Whelan


Autres avocats clés:

Sam Webster; Ravi Pattani; Victoria Bryden


Les références

‘Good technical knowledge, availability and hardworking team. Solid depth in terms of team’

‘Sam Webster was the partner in charge, and he was very hands-on during the entire deal.’

 

Principaux dossiers


Shoosmiths LLP

Characterised as ‘extremely knowledgeable’, the Shoosmiths LLP practice covers both the buyer and seller sides of private equity-backed M&A transactions, alongside overseeing complex sales of issued share capital. The practice is especially active in the healthtech, energy, and TMT industries, while the ‘very commercial’ practice lead Amit Nayyar brings extensive experience in acting for private equity sponsor clients to the outfit in London. James Foster, based in Leeds, concentrates on private equity investments; Sanjeev Sharma in London is highly regarded for his follow-on investment work; and in Birmingham, Daniel Shilvock is cited as an integral part of the practice.

Responsables de la pratique:

Amit Nayyar


Autres avocats clés:

James Foster; Sanjeev Sharma; Daniel Shilvock; Claire Checketts; Sean Wright; Kiran Dhesi; Elizabeth Ward; Holly Hirst; Aleksandr Bosch; Adam Frost; Lawrence Renny; Sophie Davies; Brodie Thomson; Jordan Telford; Natalie Redfern


Les références

‘The Shoosmiths team represents true value. They are extremely knowledgeable and care about giving commercial advice based on their expertise and experience.’

‘Elizabeth Ward is a true leader in the Private Equity space. She knows exactly what clients need and how to deliver this without point scoring or inefficiencies. Clients are lucky to have her on their side, and I would always want her fighting our corner.’

‘Shoosmiths offer competitive fees compared to most of its counterparts, and offer an efficient, commercial perspective in order to get the deal done.’

Principaux clients

Five Arrows Principal Investments


Norland Capital


Foundation Investment Partners


Synova


CGE Partners


LDC


TA Associates


Leftfield Capital


Northedge


Downing


Cadence Equity Partners


Leon Capital


BGF


Livingbridge


Five Arrows Growth Capital


Five Arrows Long Term


Harwood Capital


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Five Arrows Long Term and Five Arrows Principal Investments on the acquisition of Rimes – a leading provider of EDM (enterprise data management) as-a-service and investment platform solution to the global community from EQT.
  • Advised Hipgnosis Songs Fund Limited (an investment trust focused on acquiring and managing music rights and associated musical intellectual property) on its public acquisition by Blackstone in a competitive takeover process.
  • Advised PE-backed Texthelp Group and n2y on its merger to form edtech giant, Everway (backed by Five Arrows Principal Investments, Five Arrows Long Term Fund and Providence Equity Partners).

Stephenson Harwood

Counting private equity houses, management teams, and investee companies amongst its key clients, Stephenson Harwood has extensive experience in advising on management buyouts and multi-jurisdictional M&A transactions. The practice showcases considerable strength in the life sciences and tech sectors, alongside a growing focus on the management software field. Sarah de Ste Croix spearheads the outfit from London, whilst Jonathan Pittal concentrates on cross-border investments. The ’standout’ Malcolm MacDougall primarily concentrates on private equity deals, Adam Crossley acts for founders and portfolio companies, and Richard Coleman is a decarbonisation expert.

Responsables de la pratique:

Sarah de Ste Croix


Autres avocats clés:

Jonathan Pittal; Malcolm MacDougall; Adam Crossley; Richard Coleman; Chris Manning; Lucy Thorpe; Nicola Baird; Emily Davies; Rajiv Kakkad


Les références

‘Stephenson Harwood have always provided superb service. They have strong international capabilities through their network. Their support through transactions is always well structured and they proactively plan to manage bottle necks to meet timetables with key issues identified and managed early.’

‘Malcolm MacDougall is a standout Partner. He manages his team well and brings the team along with his commerciality and is able to draw on his vast experience.’

 

Principaux clients

Agathos Management


Alcuin Capital Partners


Apposite Capital


Bain Capital


Bd-capital


BGH


Bestport Private Equity


Bowmark Capital


BGF


Blandford Capital


Capiton


Capvis


Cityfleet Networks/ Comfort del Gro


Civica Group (backed by Blackstone)


Coniston Capital


Elysian Capital


Management team of EMAS Pharma


EMERAM Capital Partners


ESO Capital


Five Arrows


FPE Capital


James Gorfin (founder of G2V Group)


Horizon Capital


Inktavo


Management team of Lebara


Longevity Partners


Macquarie


Morgan Stanley


Nalanda Global


Novus Private Equity


Opus Capita


Osprey Investors


Papirfly Group


Pelican Capital


PSG Equity


Quad-C Management, Inc.


Rockpool Investments


Schroders


Standard Life Aberdeen


Star Capital


TruArc Partners


Unigestion SA


Verdane Advisors


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised CityFleet Networks, a subsidiary of the Singaporean-listed multinational company ComfortDelGro, on its acquisition of Addison Lee.
  • Advised Bowmark Capital on its partnership with Transparity, a high-growth Microsoft services partner.
  • Advised Agathos Management LLP on its majority investment in Plowman Craven, one of the UK’s largest surveying companies.

Gowling WLG

With Ian Piggin at the helm, Gowling WLG is well established in the mid-market private equity sphere, routinely overseeing multi-jurisdictional acquisitions, equity financings, and fundraising rounds. The industry expertise extends to the healthcare and biotech spheres, with Piggin supporting private equity funds and management teams on acquisitions and exits from London. Neil Hendron has a strong track record in advising on strategic acquisitions and investments, Chris Towle is knowledgeable in disposals, and Christopher Letters is highlighted for his reinvestment focus. Jeremy Millington has expertise in managing public takeovers, and Gareth Baker is also highlighted as key.

Responsables de la pratique:

Ian Piggin


Autres avocats clés:

Neil Hendron; Chris Towle; Christopher Letters; Jeremy Millington; Gareth Baker; Rebecca Burford; Kris Rogers; Katherine Rainwood; Sharon Ayres; Navin Prabhakar; Chris Brierley; Micky Yang; Chelsie Taylor; Róisín Bergin; Siân Dewing


Principaux clients

António Parada


HydrogenOne Capital Growth plc


Pioneer Infrastructure Partners II SCSP


Perwyn Advisors UK Limited


Valiant FX Topco Limited


Edmond de Rothschild Equity Opportunities IV SLP


Mobeus Equity Partners LLP


Cairngorm Capital LLP


Gyrus Capital S.A.


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised FairJourney Biologics founder and CEO, António Parada, on the sale and partial reinvestment of his stake in FairJourney Biologics, alongside existing sponsor GHO Capital, to Partners Group, one of the largest firms in the global private markets industry.
  • Advised Edmond de Rothschild Equity Opportunities IV SLP, an alternative investment fund, on its participation in the proposed public to private acquisition of Alliance Pharma plc.
  • Advised Pioneer Infrastructure Partners II SCSp, the second institutional fund managed by Pioneer Point Partners LLP, on its first investment in Yeager Energy B.V.

Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer LLP

Advising domestic and global clients throughout the investment lifecycle, ranging from equity capital raises to major investments, Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer LLP is described as ‘agile’ and ‘dynamic’. The firm’s lawyers mainly concentrate upon the financial services, TMT, and healthcare industries, routinely assisting companies with acquisitions and management buyouts. Team leader John Taylor is London-based, specialising in disposals and takeovers, whilst Malcolm Lombers is a private equity-backed M&A specialist. David D’Souza focuses on management equity arrangements, the ‘standout’ Joseph Dennis is knowledgeable in reorganisations, and Eleanor Shanks is also highlighted for her co-investment work.

Responsables de la pratique:

John Taylor


Autres avocats clés:

Malcolm Lombers; David D’Souza; Joseph Dennis; Eleanor Shanks; Gregor Gordon; Nikesh Arya


Les références

‘This HSF team are agile, dynamic and most significantly well attuned to the needs of their sponsor clients in a wide variety of acquisition/divestment and portfolio maintenance transactions.’

‘Partner Joseph Dennis is the standout performer. He has his finger on the pulse of sponsor clients’ needs every step of the way and he has an exceptional ability to deliver commercially relevant and pragmatic solutions to the most complex of deal issues that arise.’

 

Principaux clients

EQT and Icon Group


IFC


Miller Insurance


Waterland Private Equity


Avedon Capital


Aquiline Capital Partners


Scantox


Ardonagh Group


Kestrel Partners


Fidelio


Goldman Sachs Asset Management


AustralianSuper


GIC


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Waterland Private Equity (WPE) and the management sellers on the sale of Cooper Parry to Lee Equity Partners (Lee Equity) in an auction bid process.
  • Advised Aquiline Capital Partners on its investment in Isio.
  • Advised longstanding client AustralianSuper, Australia’s largest superannuation fund, on its capital investment of €1.5 billion, in conjunction with an overall equity capital raise of €1.959 billion, in the EMEA branch of Vantage Data Centers.

McDermott Will & Schulte

Providing strategic counsel to European and US private equity sponsors on all aspects of cross-border M&A and disposals, McDermott Will & Schulte has extensive expertise in the manufacturing, aviation, and software spheres. Operating out of London, Aymen Mahmoud heads the practice, while Fatema Orjela brings vast knowledge on leveraged buyouts, divestitures, and joint ventures to the outfit. Eleanor West is an expert in growth capital investments and restructurings, Jason Zemmel predominantly concentrates on leveraged buyouts, and Zoe Woodhouse is well versed in handling management equity plans.

Responsables de la pratique:

Aymen Mahmoud


Autres avocats clés:

Fatema Orjela; Eleanor West; Jason Zemmel; Zoe Woodhouse


Principaux clients

H.I.G. Europe Capital Partners


Main Capital Partners


Oaktree Capital Management


Ampersand Capital Partners


Bayside Capital


H.I.G. Infrastructure


H.I.G. Europe Middle Market Holdings


H.I.G. Advantage


Aldebaran Capital Partners


Nautic Partners, LLC


Armira Beteiligungen GmbH & Co. KG


Verlinvest


Vesey Street Capital Partners


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised H.I.G. Infrastructure (one of the affiliates of H.I.G. Capital (H.I.G.), a leading global alternative investment firm with USD 65 billion of capital under management), on acquiring PolarDC Group Limited.
  • Advised Main Capital Partners and its portfolio company Bizzdesign on the acquisition of the software business Alfabet from Software GmbH (formerly Software AG).
  • Advised new client Aldebaran Capital Partners, a French PE sponsor focused on complex situations, on the acquisition of Saint-Gobain’s building drainage business, PAM Building.

Mishcon de Reya LLP

Representing founders, management teams, and private equity fund investors, Mishcon de Reya LLP has significant strength in complex sales of issued share capital and multi-jurisdictional acquisitions. The expertise extends to the retail and tech sectors, with London-based practice head Nadim Meer specialising in growth capital investments and fundraisings. Andrew Rimmington is especially skilled in handling joint ventures and strategic alliances, Kevin McCarthy  concentrates on private equity-backed M&A transactions, and James Paterson acts for investee companies and financial institutions. Karine Bashardust is also highlighted as key contact, while  Mark Thompson left the firm in 2025.

Responsables de la pratique:

Nadim Meer


Autres avocats clés:

Andrew Rimmington; Kevin McCarthy; James Paterson; Karine Bashardust


Principaux clients

Autovista Group


Care UK (a Bridgepoint portfolio company)


Starwood Capital


Dream International BV


Corndel Group


Allata Holdings LLC


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised long-term client Autovista Group and its management team on the sale of Autovista Group to J.D. Power, a global leader in data analytics and a Portfolio company of Thoma Bravo.
  • Advised the management team of Care UK on the sale of the business by Bridgepoint.
  • Represented Corndel – a training provider that specialises in delivering bespoke learning programmes in leadership, data and technology.

Morgan, Lewis & Bockius UK LLP

Morgan, Lewis & Bockius UK LLP exhibits ‘good knowledge of private market funds’ when supporting private equity houses and sovereign wealth funds on cross-border M&A and investments. The industry coverage ranges from crypto and finance to sport, with the ‘very strong’ head Mark Geday routinely advising clients across the private equity asset class and the investment management sector from London. Tomasz Wozniak is highly regarded for his knowledge in private equity transactions, and Robert Hutton concentrates on the infrastructure and tech industries. Jack Shawdon mainly focuses on disposals, while Abbey Brimson is also highlighted as key.

Responsables de la pratique:

Mark Geday


Autres avocats clés:

Tomasz Wozniak; Robert Hutton; Jack Shawdon; Abbey Brimson; Matthew De Cataldo


Les références

‘Good knowledge of private market funds and industry trends.’

‘Mark Geday- very strong asset management M&A experience.’

 

Principaux clients

PSG Equity


Redwheel Asset Management


Bullish Global


Lincoln Peak Capital


MSP Sports Capital


Argentem Creek Partners


Wittington Investments


Regent LP


Third Point LLC


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Searchspring Holdings, L.P. (a portfolio company of PSG Equity) in its acquisition of Klevu OY.
  • Advised Redwheel Asset Management, an affiliate of Lincoln Peak Capital, on the acquisition of the Ecofin business from Tortoise Investments.
  • Represented Bullish, a leading digital assets exchange, in the acquisition of Crypto Coin Comparison Ltd, which operates as CCData and CryptoCompare.

Norton Rose Fulbright

Primarily acting on the buyer-side, the Norton Rose Fulbright team combines expertise in sales of issued share capital along with complex investment rounds. The cross-sector knowledge spans across the renewable energy, insurance, and infrastructure fields, with the duo of Sophie O’Connor and Bayo Odubeko co-heading the London-based outfit. Odubeko is a private equity and venture capital specialist, O’Connor mainly advises sponsors and portfolio companies, while Nicholas Berry is an M&A expert. Jason Moss mainly concentrates on disposals and investments, and Matthew Eccles is also highlighted as key.

Responsables de la pratique:

Sophie O’Connor; Bayo Odubeko


Autres avocats clés:

Nicholas Berry; Jason Moss; Matthew Eccles; Thomas Widdows


Les références

‘The team were excellent, they had in-depth knowledge of the market and type of deal. They were able to flex as the scope and complexity of the transaction increased. Their ability to collaborate with our wider deal team was fantastic. I was never in doubt that all advisers were aligned and pulling in the same direction.’

‘Sophie O’Connor was exceptional. She was unflappable, tenacious, assertive but compassionate, and really understood how to help us navigate the complexities and stress of the transaction. As the scope of the transaction escalated, Sophie’s work ethic was second to none, not going home for days at a time as deadlines and timeframes became essential to hit. She really understood us as a client and how to balance legal excellence in the contracts with the terms and approach we wanted to take.’

 

Principaux clients

Kaizen


Markerstudy Group


Quinbrook


African Infrastructure Investment Managers (AIIM)


African Development Partners III LP


M Group Services


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Kaizen, a leading provider of regulatory compliance solutions for global financial institutions, and its founder Dario Crispini, on the completion of a GBP 42 million minority investment from Boston-based growth equity firm Guidepost Growth Equity.
  • Advised Markerstudy Group, a Pollen Street Capital backed company, on its acquisition of insurance broker Hughes Insurance from US corporate Liberty Mutual.
  • Advised Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners in respect of the purchase by Renewable & Decarbonisation Holdings Limited from CS UK Holdings III Limited of two advanced-stage photovoltaic projects at (1) Talbot Green, Cardiff; and (2) Stockton-on-Tees, Durham.

Browne Jacobson LLP

Displaying extensive expertise in all aspects of disposals, secondary exits, and management buyouts, Browne Jacobson LLP ‘excels across all aspects of a mid-market deal’ when acting for private equity houses and major sponsors. The practice leverages cross-border capabilities when handling multi-jurisdictional private equity-backed M&A transactions, with the team leader Gavin Cummings assisting both management and equity providers. Gareth Davies is an expert in exits from his base in Birmingham, while Nottingham’s Mark Hughes is a private equity transaction specialist. Manchester’s Ryan Brown is also highlighted as integral.

Responsables de la pratique:

Gavin Cummings


Autres avocats clés:

Gareth Davies; Mark Hughes; Ryan Brown; Sandra Wong; James Skivington; William Darmody; Mike Jackson; Clare Hanna


Les références

‘Browne Jacobson excels across all aspects of a mid-market deal – they understand the businesses, the people and the typical deal issues and considerations. They work on a volume of deals that ensures the junior talent quickly learn and can be trusted in a deal.’

‘Gavin Cummings – very strong lawyer and user-friendly. Mark Hughes – very strong lawyer and user friendly. Sandra Wong — very strong lawyer and user friendly.

 

Principaux clients

One Equity Partners and LDC and their portfolio asset, MSQ Partners


Lloyds Development Capital (Holdings) Limited


BGF and TFP Bidco Ltd


The shareholders of The Edwin Group Limited


The Shareholders of Water Babies Group Limited


The shareholders of Buttress Holdings Limited


The shareholders of CCS Media


The shareholders of DSP (including YFM Equity Partners)


The shareholders of Landmark Underwriting


Coniston Capital LLP


NorthEdge Capital LLP and the shareholders of Clover Topco Limited


Apiary Capital LLP and the shareholders of Project Global Topco Limited


Obsequio group Limited


Bluprint Global Limited and the shareholders thereof.


Aliter Capital LLP


Shareholders of Grip-UK ltd


Rcapital and the shareholders of Trac Holdings Limited


Principaux dossiers


Burges Salmon LLP

Praised for being ‘calm and precise under pressure’, Burges Salmon LLP has a strong track record in overseeing strategic investments and sales of issued share capital for private equity sponsored companies primarily. Splitting their time between Bristol and London, Andrew Mills heads the private equity division, focusing on divestments and proprietary buyouts, whilst Mark Shepherd has expertise in refinancings. Charles Claisse is knowledgeable in the tech sphere, and from Edinburgh, Danny Lee is an expert in joint ventures.

Responsables de la pratique:

Andrew Mills


Autres avocats clés:

Mark Shepherd; Danny Lee; Charles Claisse; Alex Lloyd; Tim Roberts


Les références

‘Key strength is ability to achieve commercial goals in a safe and understandable fashion. Excellent at seeing the bigger picture and not viewing the transaction as a battle between lawyers.’

‘Calm and precise under pressure. Willing to advice rather than just provide available options.’

Principaux clients

Argos Wityu


Abenex Capital


Zetland Capital Partners


Livingbridge


Inverleith


Eagle Tree Capital


Alpina Partners


BGF (formerly Business Growth Fund)


Octopus Investments


Causeway Capital


Openwork Partnership LLP


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Schenk Tanktransport, backed by independent private equity firm Argos Wityu, on its acquisition of Suttons Tankers Ltd, a well-established UK road tanker logistics provider.
  • Advised Moss, backed by US private equity firm EagleTree Capital, on its acquisition of Rocket Graphics, having advised it on the acquisition of Macro Art, Moss’ first UK acquisition, in late 2023.
  • Advised the senior management team of Loungers plc in connection with the £354m recommended offer for the company by Fortress Investment Group.

Fieldfisher

Leveraging strong cross-border capabilities, Fieldfisher consistently represents private equity funds and major tech companies in complex equity fundraisings and share sales. The team has extensive knowledge in exits and sales of issued share capital, as the London-based head Neil Matthews is a corporate finance specialist. Keith Woodhouse concentrates on venture capital matters, Tim Bird focuses on the food and beverage fields, whilst Thomas Colmer is also cited as key. Philip Watkins is also labelled as a 'standout'.

Responsables de la pratique:

Neil Matthews


Autres avocats clés:

Keith Woodhouse; Tim Bird; Thomas Colmer; Carlton Durrant; Tom Ward; Christine Phillips; David Bowcock; Janita Good; Philip Watkins; Tom Rush; Joshua Cronin; Jaspaul Dhesi; Maxine Smith


Les références

‘Philip Watkins is a standout new hire with extensive experience of corporate transactions.’

 

Principaux clients

TLC Future Group


SWEN Capital Partners


Board Intelligence Ltd


Clinithink Limited


ABAX UK Limited


Acurio Fund III FCR


Garrison Technology Ltd


Marlowe PLC


LetterOne


C5 Capital


Growth Catalyst Partners


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised private equity firm TLC Future Group and its stakeholders on an auction sale process of home energy improvements finance and installation business the Improveasy Group to multiple trade sale and PE bidders.
  • Advised Marlowe plc on the sale of its GRC division to private equity firm Inflexion for £430 million.
  • Advised Board Intelligence Ltd and sellers on the cross-border sale of the entire issued share capital of UK-headquartered software company Board Intelligence Limited (backed by Susquehanna Growth Equity) to US private equity house, K1 Investment Management.

Freshfields

Freshfields has extensive experience in advising buyers and sellers in complex equity fundraisings and sales of issued share capital, primarily in the tech and healthcare fields. The practice regularly advises financial investors and private equity houses, with the trio of Charles Hayes, Victoria Sigeti, and James Scott spearheading the outfit from London. All three are highly knowledgeable in handling cross-border acquisitions and investments.

Responsables de la pratique:

Charles Hayes; Victoria Sigeti; James Scott


Autres avocats clés:

Alastair Brown; Mark Brewer; Angus Scott; Chris Yarrow


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, a leading global provider of end-to-end tech-enabled fund administration and corporate services.
  • Advised Cinven on its majority investment in Grant Thornton UK, one of the UK’s leading diversified professional services firms offering audit, tax, and advisory services and operating with over 240 partners across more than 20 offices in the UK.
  • Advised the selling shareholders, including Adevinta (a portfolio company of Blackstone and Permira), on the sale of Distilled Limited to Blacksheep Fund Management.

RPC

Predominantly specialising in the tech, healthcare, and insurance fields, RPC is highly regarded for its work in multi-jurisdictional acquisitions and financing arrangements. The firm regularly acts on behalf of management teams and portfolio companies, as the London-based head James Mee mainly focuses on private equity transactions. David Wallis is an expert in leveraged buyouts, Chris Brierly is an experienced M&A lawyer, and Jeremy Cunningham is also cited as integral.

Responsables de la pratique:

James Mee


Autres avocats clés:

David Wallis; Chris Brierly; Jeremy Cunningham; Priyanka Butani


Principaux clients

Bain Capital Insurance


Bishop Street Underwriters (a RedBird Capital Partners portfolio company)


Beat Capital Partners


JRJ


Howden Group and Howden Ventures


B.P. Marsh & Partners Plc


Asahi Kasei


Castel Underwriting (management)


Axis (management)


AssuredPartners UK&I


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Bain Capital and Beat Capital Partners on the sale of shares in Beat Capital Partners to Ambac Financial Group, a NYSE listed US based insurance group.
  • Advised Bishop Street Underwriters Bishop Street, a RedBird Capital Partners portfolio company, on its acquisition of Landmark Underwriting, a specialty-focused managing general agent in the London insurance market.
  • Advising the shareholders and senior management team of Axis in connection with its sale to global investment firm HIG Capital to create a new leading UK property maintenance provider.

Watson Farley & Williams LLP

Fielding an ‘unflappable’ and ‘highly experienced’ practice, Watson Farley & Williams LLP has expertise in joint ventures and M&A transactions, particularly on the buyer-side. The firm is well versed in advising private equity funds on exit processes, with the London-based Chris Kilburn spearheading the practice. Andy Savage mainly focuses on the energy and infrastructure industries, Mark Tooke is a venture capital specialist, and Clementine Freeth is highlighted as key.

Responsables de la pratique:

Chris Kilburn


Autres avocats clés:

Andy Savage; Mark Tooke; Clementine Freeth; Florence Childs


Les références

‘Watson Farley & Williams LLP are strong across the board in small to mid-market deals. The corporate team are unflappable and highly experienced, capable of making a client’s life easier by focusing on the key value points that clients should be concerned.’

‘Expert industry knowledge, strong execution and good communication.’

‘Work ethic and expertise.’

Principaux clients

Beacon Energy


Eco Atlantic Oil & Gas


TORM


ACAM LP


UCAM Ltd


Dynamis Capital Limited


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised TORM plc on the US$250m sale of TORM shares owned by OCM Njord Holdings S.à.r.l., a company indirectly owned by private equity firm Oaktree Capital Management L.P..
  • Advised Kanadevia Inova in connection with the acquisition of Iona Capital Limited and its portfolio of 11 renewable gas plants in the UK together with a substantial global pipeline of projects, including projects throughout Europe and also the United States.
  • Advising Altamin Limited on its acquisition from Appian PE fund of a 29.85% interest in Vedra, the current joint venture vehicle and holder of the Gorno Project.

Winston & Strawn LLP

Providing bespoke advice on mid-market transactions, spanning from buyouts to refinancings, Winston & Strawn LLP specialises in the real estate, energy, and manufacturing fields predominantly. The team is co-led from London by the ‘standout’ Nicholas Usher and Paul Amiss, with each being experts in acting for private equity sponsors, entrepreneurs, and founders. Ian Borman is well versed in transaction structuring, while Rebecca Jack is also highlighted as key.

Responsables de la pratique:

Nicholas Usher; Paul Amiss


Autres avocats clés:

Ian Borman; Rebecca Jack; Chelsea Thompson; Emily Simmons


Les références

‘1st rate transatlantic advice.’

‘Nicholas Usher is a standout M&A lawyer and very easy to work with.’

‘They are great deal captains for multi-jurisdictional deals. Clients benefit from their broad own and external network.’

Principaux clients

SF Holding Corp.


Woolpert Inc.


Safeguard Medical


Capdesia


VTC DeGould LLC


Principaux dossiers


Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP

Based out of Leeds, Simon Pilling and James Cook co-head the Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP outfit, primarily handling equity investments, sales of issued share capital, and private equity-backed acquisitions. Key sectors of focus include the fintech and retail industries, with Pilling and Cook routinely acting for private equity funds and management teams. Catherine Willis covers group reorganisations, while Newcastle’s David Ridley is also noted as key.

Responsables de la pratique:

Simon Pilling; James Cook


Autres avocats clés:

Catherine Willis; David Ridley


Les références


 

Principaux clients

LDC


Lomond Group


North Edge


Clearly Drinks


Fera Science Limited


Trevally Capital


Waterscan


Piper


Kennelpak Limited


Cutwel


Zinc Group


NVM


Pure Pet Food


Foresight Capital


Inside Travel Group


Impact Futures


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Lomond and LDC on a landmark investment by global asset manager LDC, and reinvestment by existing management, helping to support the group’s continued M&A growth strategy of further consolidation in existing markets and providing additional capital to drive expansion in new regions.
  • Advised longstanding client Piper Private Equity in connection with its investment in Inside Travel Group.
  • Advised Lomond, operating from Leeds and Yorkshire under the Linley & Simpson branch, on its largest acquisition to date with the purchase of Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward.