Kirkland & Ellis International LLP continues to handle numerous high value fund closings, representing a vast array of private investment fund sponsors worldwide, alongside a booming secondaries practice. The team is led by Richard Watkins, who is recommended for his handling of complex private fund structuring and related transactional work, including multiple liquidity related transactions. Watkins is supported by a strong bench, including credit, real estate and private equity fund formation expert Anand Damodaran, the liquidity transactions focused Andrew Shore, and levered and unlevered parallel arrangement structures specialist Amala Ejikeme. Theodore Cardos is another central name in the team, offering expertise in synthetic and stapled secondary offerings as well as other transactional forms. Amy Fox, Aleksander Bakic and Catherine Gokah are all also integral team members who are noted for their expertise in the private funds space.
Private funds in London
Kirkland & Ellis International LLP
Practice head(s):
Richard Watkins
Other key lawyers:
Anand Damodaran; Christopher Braunack; Andrew Shore; Amala Ejikeme; Theodore Cardos; Aleksander Bakic; Amy Fox; Jeremy Leggate; John Messent; David Pritchett; Edward Prestwich; Catherine Gokah
Testimonials
‘Kirkland & Ellis have built an enviable practice with a huge bench of talent and lawyers who are smart, switched-on and very commercial. They understand the market and are on top of all the key issues and developments. As a client, you feel like you are getting clear and up-to-date advice from experts in their fields who understand the commercial expectations of a deal.’
‘Richard Watkins is extremely smart & commercial and understands complex issues very quickly. He provides clear & coherent advice and is a fantastic resource.’
‘Andy Shore is an exceptional lawyer. He is sharp, provides clear commercial advice and is always available. Very much a go-to partner, he is hands-on and is building a great reputation. John Messent is a pleasure to work with; he is always available and provides sensible and practical advice.’
‘The team has an unrivalled breadth of experience in the market. As private funds generally becomes more encompassing of different strategies and initiatives, this breadth is invaluable. In addition, given the number of sponsors KE act for, they have built up a fantastic market data resource.’
‘Individuals at KE are very hard working, and are focused on delivering client outcomes within tight timeframes.’
Key clients
BC Partners
Basalt Infrastructure Partners
Inflexion Private Equity
Nordic Capital
TDR Capital
FSN
GHO Capital
IK
Livingbridge
KLAR Partners
Pollen Street
Work highlights
- Advised Inflexion Private Equity on the formation of Inflexion Buyout Fund VI, which recently held its final closing at its GBP2.5 bn hard cap.
- Advising Basalt Infrastructure Partners, a leading infrastructure investor, on a complex infrastructure fundraise (Fund IV, targeting $4bn) playing to real assets strength and following the sale of its business to Colliers.
- Advised Nordic Capital, a leading European private equity investor, on the USD 9 bn raising of Nordic Capital Fund XI 2022.
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP assists clients with multiple high profile fundraisings in the European market, with notable clients including Blackstone Inc and CVC. The firm is recommended for its GP minority stakes work and liquidity solutions advice. Key names in the practice include the highly experienced Jason Glover, tech and financial services funds expert Gareth Earl, and buyout and impact focused funds specialist Seema Shah. Robert Lee, who primarily acts for major investment organisation EQT, and the alternative strategies focused Owen Lysak are also integral to the team. Dan Lloyd has deep expertise in fundraisings, while James Board has broad knowledge of direct lending fund formation issues. Beth Cowen was promoted to partner in 2022, regularly advising on liquidity features, while GP-led secondaries expert Edward Ford joined the firm from Travers Smith LLP.
Practice head(s):
Jason Glover;
Other key lawyers:
Gareth Earl; Seema Shah; Robert Lee; Dan Lloyd; Owen Lysak; James Board; Beth Cowen; Edward Ford
Testimonials
‘The STB team is very professional, very imaginative, If I compare to other firms I have worked with, they are more organized and always come up with solutions to problems. They also have a wide knowledge of the market which is very helpful.’
‘Gareth Earl and Dan Lloyds are top rank partners as they are involved in their team work and are always helpful with brainstorming new ideas. Wilson Szet, Max Gordon and Samantha Spearman are very reliable and good at their jobs.’
‘A deep seated knowledge of the space from working on the very biggest funds in the last 5 years. This gives them unparalleled levels of intel and capabilities for fundraising. They also have a dedicated, exceptional team to support their practise.’
‘SBT\’s team feel like they\’re \”in it with you\”, that they have skin in the game and want it to succeed. This energy is behind everything they do from going the extra mile to work all the hours to \”get it done\” to supporting us to truly come up with a long term fit solution’
Key clients
The Blackstone Group Inc.
CVC Capital Partners
EQT Partners
Apax Partners
Cinven
KKR
Ares
HPS Investment Partners
Bridgepoint
Affinity Partners
Charterhouse Capital Partners
Astorg Partners
Coller Capital
Oakley Capital
EMH Partners
DBAG
Mid Europa Partners
Hedosophia
CapVest
Actis
Trill
Pantheon
Triton
Work highlights
- Assisted Oakley Capital in the establishment of its fifth flagship fund, the €2.75 billion Oakley Capital V.
Clifford Chance LLP
Clifford Chance LLP acts on behalf of a range of high profile funds and boasts a large secondary transactions offering. The firm houses a specialist private equity and infrastructure funds sub-practice, and is known for its strong reputation in that space. The team is jointly led by Alexandra Davidson who specialises in advising sponsors on the establishment, structuring and offering of private funds, and Gerard Saviola, who is an expert on developing markets. Lily Marcel has deep expertise in sustainability and infrastructure funds and is also central to the team, as are the global fund structuring and private debt focused Jonathan Bray, and blind-pool funds and secondary transactions specialist Alexander Chester. Senior associate Vishal Mashru is also highly recommended, advising on a range of areas, including clean energy funds and growth capital.
Practice head(s):
Alexandra Davidson; Gerard Saviola
Other key lawyers:
Alexander Chester; Jonathan Bray; Lily Marcel; Vishal Mashru
Testimonials
‘Alex Davidson and her team – great problem solving skills, excellent market knowledge, efficient production of clear outputs, very easy to deal with and a nice group of people.’
‘Alex Davidson always solves problems with commercial and realistic solutions. Good humoured.’
‘Broad and international reach, very good at drawing in experience from other parts of the firm. The firm’s broad practice means that they are as good as anyone at knowing current market practice, emerging trends and upcoming regulations.’
‘Alex Davidson is the outstanding individual – technically gifted lawyer, encyclopedic knowledge of the funds sector and market practice, extremely commercial, creative problem solver, hard-working. Our go to individual.’
‘Alex Davidson is a venerable leader who breeds loyalty and commitment from the top down in her team. The team can handle all manner of requests; most extensive sustainable finance funds experience.’
‘Clifford Chance are clearly one of the market leaders in the world of private funds and we feel in safe hands instructing them on any new fund launch. They project manage the whole process seamlessly from start to finish and will go the extra mile.’
‘Fantasic team chemistry – this is a team which really pulls together under challenge. Amazing market know how. Excellent negotiation skills.’
‘Lily Marcel – brilliant up-and-coming partner – a masterful negotiator and wonderful legal mind. Gerard Saviola – one of the greats in the funds landscape at the moment.’
Key clients
DWS
Generation Investment Management
Clean Energy Infrastructure IX
Climate Asset Management
Axcel
Stirling Square Capital Partners
Arcus Infrastructure Partners
Credit Suisse Asset Management
EQT AB
Octopus
Work highlights
- Advised DWS on all aspects of its sale of its North American and European private equity businesses to Brookfield.
- Advises Investment Management on a number of product lines across its global sustainable investment platform.
- Continues to advise Octopus Renewables (trading as Octopus Energy Generation) in relation to energy and infrastructure products and advises Octopus Investments on their venture capital and sustainable infrastructure products.
Debevoise & Plimpton LLP
Advising a diverse range of financial services clients, Debevoise & Plimpton LLP is noted for handling traditional fundraising as well as alternative capital raising issues. The team is led by Geoffrey Kittredge
, who has longstanding expertise in fund formation. Also recommended is Matthew Dickman, who advises on the management and reorganisation of private investment funds, as well as secondary transactions, regulatory compliance, and internal economic and governance matters. Co-investments and GP-led fund restructuring expert John Rife is also a key name. John Anderson constributes in-house experience, having worked at Park Square Capital.
Practice head(s):
Geoffrey Kittredge
Other key lawyers:
John Rife; Matthew Dickman; John Anderson; Kay Hunter; Shawn D’Aguiar
Testimonials
‘The team is commercial, committed, available, responsive and pro-active. They know about our funds, find solutions and engage actively in structuring. They are not ego-driven in negotiations. They work effectively to our prioritisation and resource the team to match – this is done seamlessly and without fuss or pause.’
‘We recommend Matthew Dickman and Kay Hunter. I have not yet come across a problem that Matt cannot calmly find a solution for. His explanations are always clear and commercial.’
‘John Rife is a tremendous transactional secondaries lawyer. He has really made the secondaries market in Europe his own.’
‘Kay Hunter is a dedicated senior associate and a rising star at Debevoise. Very proactive in engaging with issues, constantly available and excellent interpersonal skills when dealing with both clients and counterparties.’
Key clients
AlbaCore Capital Partners
Apera Capital
Credit Suisse
Development Partners International LLP
Exponent Private Equity LLP
Evercare
FitzWalter Capital Limited
Flexstone Partners
Glendower Capital
Henson
Intermediate Capital Group plc
LCM Capital LLP
LeapFrog Investments
LGT Capital Partners AG
Mayfair Equity Partners
Metric Capital Partners
Park Square Capital
SVB Capital
Three Hill Capital Partners
Tikehau Capital
Tishman Speyer
Victory Hill Capital Advisors
Wafra Inc.
Work highlights
- Assisted with the formation and fundraising of LCM Credit Opportunities 4, LCM’s flagship fund. The fund pursues a credit strategy in the performing and non-performing loans markets.
- Engaged by LGT Capital Partners AG in the fifth iteration of its flagship secondaries fund; Crown Global Secondaries V.
- Advised Fifth Wall Asset Management in 2022 in connection with raising its flagship climate technology funds, which focus on early and late stage venture capital investments in real estate related climate change mitigation technologies.
Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP
Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP is adept at handling private equity and infrastructure fund related work. The firm leverages its global presence and large international funds team to act in numerous cross border mandates. Jointly leading the practice are Kate Downey, who is experienced in advising asset managers on the structuring and raising of global and European-focused investment funds across a range of asset classes, and Mark Mifsud, who advises on secondaries and fund formation across a variety of areas such as energy, infrastructure and debt. David Christmas, Piers Harris and special counsel Karen Henderson are key names within team. Associate Athena Tan is recommended for work in the infrastructure, renewables, private equity and credit spaces.
Practice head(s):
Kate Downey; Mark Mifsud
Other key lawyers:
David Christmas; Piers Harris; Karen Henderson; Sam Wilson; Rebecca Harris; Robert MacVicar; Nathan McKinnon; Athena Tan
Testimonials
‘We rate the knowledge and expertise that the team have, and the ability to work through numerous unusual requests and set ups, helping and supporting us to provide the best set up for our firm and investors.’
‘The whole team at Fried Frank are brilliant and we would give special mention to Mark Mifsud (Partner). We are always impressed by Mark’s availability and the level he is involved in our work, this is incredibly beneficial as his knowledge and expertise are immense.’
‘The Fried Frank funds practice has excellent market knowledge and is a leading provider in the field.’
Key clients
APG
Arcmont Asset Management
Aztiq
Bain Capital
Balderton Capital (UK) LLP
BlackRock
BlueBay Asset Management
Cairngorm Capital
Cambridge Innovation Capital
CataCap
Cerberus Capital Management
Christofferson Robb
Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners
Corten Capital
Crescent Capital Europe
CVC Credit Partners
Danske Private Equity
FSN Capital
Goldman Sachs
Schroders Greencoat
HSBC Asset Management
Intermediate Capital Group (ICG)
iCON Infrastructure
Investec Bank PLC
Kennet Partners
Morgan Stanley
Neuberger Berman
Norvestor Equity
Oakley Capital
Palatine Private Equity
Permira / Permira Credit
Pioneer Point Partners
Quilvest Capital Partners
Vision Capital
Vitol SA
Work highlights
- Acted as counsel to CVC Credit Partners, the dedicated credit arm of CVC, on its third European Direct Lending Fund. CVC has raised €6.3 bn (taken together with parallel investment funds and accounts) to deploy across the European Direct Lending opportunity.
- Acted as lead fundraising counsel to iCON Infrastructure on the raising of its latest flagship infrastructure fund, iCON Infrastructure Partners VI. iCON VI held its first and final closing at c.US$3.6 bn in June 2022, only three months after opening its dataroom to investors.
- Acted as counsel to BlackRock in the formation and fundraising of Diversified Private Debt Fund (DPD) with a total capital raise of £1.7 bn; and in the formation and fundraising of its fourth vintage flagship infrastructure multi-manager fund, Global Infrastructure Solutions 4.
Goodwin
Goodwin regularly handles large scale fund structuring, raising and closing matters across a range of funds, including private equity, venture capital, real estate, infrastructure and debt. The practice is led by Michael Halford, who specialises in advising managers and investors on private equity and investment fund structuring. Also key are infrastructure private equity expert Ed Hall and the fund regulation and management focused Ajay Pathak. Ravi Chopra is a key name of note within the team, and Benjamin Yeoh was promoted to partner in October 2022. Since publication, Shawn D’Aguiar left the team.
Practice head(s):
Michael Halford
Other key lawyers:
Ed Hall; Ravi Chopra; Ajay Pathak; Benjamin Yeoh; Patrick Deasey
Testimonials
‘Deep experience and knowledge of the market across the globe.’
Key clients
Abingworth
Antin Infrastructure
Bregal Investments
Endless
Glennmont Partners
Intermediate Capital Group (ICG)
Investcorp
LGT
Macquarie
Patron Capital
Work highlights
- Advised ICG on the structuring and fundraising of its eighth European Corporate fund.
- Advising Ambienta on the formation and fundraising of Ambienta Fund IV.
- Advised Longship on the fundraising and closing of Longship Fund III LP, a NOK 2.1 billion (c. €200 m) private equity fund focused on the Norwegian lower mid-market.
Linklaters LLP
Linklaters LLP assists a broad client base of cornerstone investors with mandates involving private equity, real estate, infrastructure and credit strategies, and houses a thriving ESG practice. The team is led by Matt Keogh has a great deal of experience in advising on the structuring and management of funds as well as private equity style joint ventures, fund financings. Rahul Manvatkar regularly acts for both sponsors and investors, and Clare Baker is noted for her expertise in sovereign wealth funds. Managing associate and venture capital specialist Ben Jennings, and counsel Amin Ebrahim are key names within the practice.
Practice head(s):
Matt Keogh
Other key lawyers:
Rahul Manvatkar; Clare Baker; Amin Ebrahim; Ben Jennings; Gabriela Patrikova
Testimonials
‘They are extremely dedicated and professional. They have supported us since the outset of our business and have gone above and beyond in this support and collaboration.’
‘Matt Keogh in particular has been a key support for us. He took time to understand our business and was instrumental in its development.’
‘Strong LP-side practice with an in-depth understanding of market trends and terms. Provide practical, commercial and solutions-driven advice and very user-friendly in their approach.’
‘Clare Baker is fantastic! One of the strongest lawyers I have ever come across. She is technically strong while being commercially aware at the same time.’.
‘High quality of support of associates who are part of what is clearly a very happy team. Very client-friendly style of working and able to adapt this to suit client needs. Costs-conscious and run transactions efficiently.’
‘Clare Baker: Deep knowledge of the market. Very commercial in guiding clients. Always available. Very accommodating and willing to go the extra mile on non-chargeable matters. Our go-to lawyer in this space’
‘My experience working with the fund formation team is extremely positive. They are responsive, thoughtful and have great commercial awareness.’
‘Amin Ebrahim is an excellent external counsel. He provides outstanding quality input in a timely and pragmatic way. He asks the right questions and manages the relationship and deliverables effortless.’
Key clients
Ardian
Barings
British Business Bank (Investor practice)
CBRE Investment Management
Morgan Stanley
Nestle (Investor practice)
NZ Super Fund (Investor practice)
PSP, OTPP, AIMCo, OMERS and CPPIB (Investor practice)
Softbank
USS (Investor practice)
Work highlights
- Acted as fund counsel to Barings Global Private Loan Fund 4 and Barings Global Private Loan Fund 4(S), together with GPLF4, the GPLF4 Funds, which are together Barings’ fourth private credit fund products in relation to its flagship global private loan platform.
- Provides UK law guidance and assistance in connection with Ardian’s fundraises. In 2022, these have included multi-billion Euro fundraises for ASF IX, ASF VIII Infrastructure and Ardian Private Debt V.
- Advised an investor on its investment into Octopus Energy’s European renewable energy platform, which included the seeding of a new fund set up to acquire renewable energy development projects, focused in particular on solar and wind.
Proskauer Rose LLP
Proskauer Rose LLP handles a broad spectrum fund formation issues, in addition to funds-related transactional matters involving acquisitions of asset management companies, investments in fund management companies, seed transactions and funds-of-funds. The team primarily acts for European clients. Practice head Nigel van Zyl specialises in assisting buyers and sellers of secondary fund interests, and advising on the structuring of transactions concerning continuation funds.. Venture capital expert Edward Lee and infrastructure funds specialist Peter Olds are key names of note. Jordan Hurwitz and Bruno Bertrand-Delfau are noted for their focus on secondaries. Aranpreet Randhawa and Christopher Elson are highly recommended, as are special counsels Lucie Rose and Nicholas Rose.
Practice head(s):
Nigel van Zyl
Other key lawyers:
Jordan Hurwitz; Bruno Bertrand-Delfau; Edward Lee; Peter Olds; Lucie Rose; Christopher Elson; Aranpreet Randhawa; Sean Spence; Nicholas Rose
Testimonials
‘Proskauer Rose has been an invaluable partner in navigating the rapidly developing world of sustainable finance regulations. They have become critical authorities on this subject.’
‘Nicholas Rose has been a stand-out in our engagement. Nick is always excellently prepared and responsive.’
‘Top-tier advice, work product, and service.’
‘Very knowledgeable and flexible team to adapt to different scenarios. Very solutions focused as a group, not just at the top level.’
‘Nigel Van Zyl leads the group and is extremely experienced in his field. Always responsive and nothing is ever too much trouble. Very solution focused, leading the team by example. Friendly and approachable but robust when required.’
‘We have a very good collaboration with Proskauer. They are the best in their field.’
‘They are very easy to work with, great knowledge and answer any questions very quickly. I can give my best recommendation about Nick Rose.’
‘Strong capacity to make the translation between legal documentation and commercial considerations while at the same time keeping close eye on project timing and management.’
Key clients
2150
Access Capital Partners
Ardian
AnaCap
A.P. Møller
Capital Dynamics
EMK Capital Management
G Square Healthcare
Hg
Investcorp
Lexington Partners
Northzone
One Peak
Schroders Capital
Singular Capital Partners
Strategic Partners Fund Solutions
Tenzing Private Equity
Work highlights
- Advised 17Capital on the closing of its inaugural NAV lending fund.
- Advised Ardian on 24 secondary transactions in the last 12 months, with total deal values exceeding $13.5bn.
- Advised JLC Infrastructure on its capital raising and related activities in connection with its investment in the New Terminal One project at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City.
Weil, Gotshal & Manges (London) LLP
Weil, Gotshal & Manges (London) LLP advises on numerous fundraisings, in addition to ongoing fund management issues for a varied range of clients, which notably includes Oakley, Actis, and decarbonisation fund Just Climate. The team is led by the highly experienced Ed Gander
, recommended for his expertise in raising venture capital, private equity, infrastructure, real estate, impact and credit funds. GP stake transactions and GP led secondaries expert James Bromley, and co-investments specialist Stephen Fox are also essential to the team. Further key names include James Sargent, whose areas of expertise include continuation funds and fund recapitalisation processes, and Marc Schubert, who is noted for his regulatory expertise. Jacquelyn Volpe was promoted to partner in January 2023.
Practice head(s):
Ed Gander
Other key lawyers:
James Bromley; Stephen Fox; James Sargent; Jacquelyn Volpe; Marc Schubert
Testimonials
‘Market leading practice for fund formation for the following reasons – commercial and pragmatic, highly responsive, well resourced with strength in depth, great source of market data, in-house regulatory capability and US capability is useful.’
‘Ed Gander is highly commercial, pragmatic and responsive.’
‘Great synergy between the lawyers.’
‘First and foremost, what stands out is the team. Weil is always ready to support us in our needs, is pragmatic in their approach, and is transparent about status of the project.’
‘The transactions have conducted themselves smoothly, and the team remains available for post-project questions and discussions.’
‘Pleasant people to work with, showcasing professionalism and skill in both legal expertise and negotiation support.’
‘They are a very hands-on, partner-led and client services focused firm. The team are very commercial, very knowledgeable of the sector and have a wide aperture of experience across private funds. They have grown market share and that’s down to the quality of the team and how they operate.’
‘James Bromley is incredibly knowledgeable, commercial, client-friendly and has a diverse background of experience that makes him well suited to his role. His opinions are highly valued by clients and he is a trusted advisor.’
Key clients
Generation Investment Management
PAI Partners
Just Climate
InfraRed
Lazard
bd-Capital
M&G Catalyst
Px3
Blue Horizon
Aleph
Actis
Ashgrove Capital
Astarte Capital
Dalmore
Graphite Capital
Gyrus
Wovenlight
CapMan
PATRIZIA
Oakley
Argos Wityu
Work highlights
- Acts as international funds counsel for PAI Partners on the launch and closings of this PAI successor fund, PAI Partners VIII – having acted on the predecessor fund.
- Advising Actis in relation to the development, launch and closing of the Actis Long Life Infrastructure Fund II. The fund represents the continued extension of Actis’ fund product suite and an expansion of this new Actis business line.
- Acting on the creation of a new business for Generation Investment Management – Just Climate – which seeks to catalyse and channel capital into companies and projects which have the potential to decarbonise the economy.
Akin
Akin provides a diverse offering covering a range of funds, including buyout, growth, venture, credit, infrastructure and real estate. The practice is particularly recommended for its expertise in advising sovereign wealth funds and debt credit funds. The team is headed by buyout and green energy funds specialist Daniel Quinn. John Daghlian
is an expert in private equity funds, and Mary Lavelle has broad knowledge spanning fund formations and secondary transactions. Associate Qasam Mahmood has deep expertise in ongoing fund management, as well as formation and structuring.
Practice head(s):
Daniel Quinn
Other key lawyers:
John Daghlian; Daniel Quinn; Mary Lavelle; Chris Jeanes; Simon Ellis; Qasam Mahmood; Felicity Stansfield
Testimonials
‘Qasam Mahmood is a dedicated and talented senior legal counsel who has provided thoughtful advice and who has proven time and time again that he can come up with creative and out of the box solutions to highly complex legal issues.’
‘Danny Quinn is an exceptional lawyer with deep market knowledge of the private funds industry.’
‘Mary Lavelle, is actively engaged in all of our work which we highly appreciate. She is a hard-working and commercial lawyer that has supported us through numerous projects.’
‘Mary Lavelle – good commercial approach, thorough and thinking through the angles, responsive.’
‘Felicity Stansfield – responsive, highly proactive. Taking ownership of the transaction.’
‘Large team with deep and wide ranging experience.’
‘John Daghlian – in legal valhalla for PE funds and secondaries, a wealth of knowledge and experience.’
‘Simon Ellis – good knowledge and responsive.’
Key clients
Acumen Capital Partners
Adelis Equity Partners
Admaius Capital
Ahren Innovation Capital
Aliph Capital
Aliter Capital
Apollo Global Management
Coller Capital
EchoVC Partners
eEquity AB
Everstone
Expedition Growth Capital
Glendower Capital
Government of Singapore Investment Corporation
Harbour Litigation Funding
Intermediate Capital Group
KawiSafi Ventures
Key Capital
MVOF Management Limited
National Trust of Scotland
Oakfield Capital Partners
Ocean Fund LP
Oriens
Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners
RIT Capital
Rubicon Partners
Stratus Group
Sunridge Partners
Turkven Private Equity
Varsity Capital
Wren House Infrastructure Management Limited
Zetland Capital Partners
Work highlights
- Advised Adelis Equity Partners on the formation of a Fund Continuation Vehicle to acquire SSI Diagnostica Group, a portfolio company of Adelis Equity Partners Fund I, alongside the company’s management and board, Adelis Equity Partners Fund III and the Adelis team.
- Advised the European development finance institutions British International Investment, Norfund and Finnfund on their investment, as the cornerstone investors, in The African Forestry Impact Platform for $200m and their indirect investment in AFIP’s seed investment.
- Advised Turkven in the raising of its fourth fund, which is focused on growth opportunities in Turkey.
A&O Shearman
A&O Shearman is known for its specialist institutional investor sub-practice, which represents a number of institutional investors on their investments into private funds, including private equity, hedge and special situation funds. The firm also acts for private capital investors, including both GPs and LPs. Practice head Matt Huggett has deep expertise in fund formation issues, particularly regarding environmental impact funds. Real estate funds expert Dominic Von Wulffen, and ESG specialist Emma Danforth are key names within the team. Nick Williams primarily focuses on infrastructure funds, and MaameYaa Kwafo-Akoto has notable experience in advising sovereign wealth funds.
Practice head(s):
Matt Huggett
Other key lawyers:
Nick Williams; MaameYaa Kwafo-Akoto; Dominic von Wulffen; Emma Danforth
Testimonials
‘The team are efficient and innovative in their solutions to complex structures and legal issues. They are a one-stop shop, from initial review of investment documentation, tax advice and structuring and SWF expertise. It is not often that one finds all this expertise at such a high level within a single team.’
‘MaameYaa Kwafo-Akoto is a go getter that knows how to ensure her clients are always well managed and serviced. She draws in the right capabilities and builds a unique team for each transaction, befitting of the requirements of the transaction. Always ensuring she delivers on time and on point.’
‘Great market knowledge.’
Work highlights
Ashurst
Ashurst maintains a broad private funds offering, spanning real estate, private equity, debt and credit funds and secondary transactions. The team is is led by the experienced Nick Goddard and includes Piers Warburton, who has longstanding experience in leading major fund-raising projects, as well as investment management expert Nicola Hopkins. Associate Donald Corbett is also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Nick Goddard
Other key lawyers:
Piers Warburton; Nicola Hopkins; Donald Corbett
Testimonials
‘Piers Warburton is hands-on, practical and solution oriented. Probably one of the very best in the field.’
‘Strong partner relationships, keep insight into the industry and knowledge of our business. Team working across multiple engagements and maintaining quality output.’
‘The team (led by Niki Hopkins) is down-to-earth, client and deal focused, and responsive. Lawyers that we enjoy working with.’
Key clients
Altor Equity Partners
Axiom Equity Capital Partners LLP
Equitix Ltd
Intermediate Capital Group
Work highlights
- Advising Altor on the establishment of the €4bn Altor Fund VI.
- Advised new client Axoim Equity Partners LLP on the establishment of its first special purpose fund, and on its simultaneous acquisition of Akixi Limited, a leading call and contact analytics software company.
- Continues to advise a multinational investment company’s on behalf of funds and accounts under management in relation to a number of direct and indirect co-investments.
Paul Hastings LLP
Paul Hastings LLP stands out for handling high value debt structures, as well as assisting with credit and direct funds. The group offers niche expertise in risk retention fund issues, an area in which Christian Parker is a specialist. Parker leads the team alongside credit and debt funds focused Diala Minott, and fund restructuring and spin-out expert Duncan Woollard. Ted Craig has deep experience in fund formation as well as GPs and secondary transactions.
Practice head(s):
Diala Minott; Christian Parker; Duncan Woollard
Other key lawyers:
Ted Craig
Testimonials
‘Experienced and efficient team, with creative solutions to the most intractable problems. A true partner at every step of the way on the legal process.’
‘Duncan Woolard is a very experienced fund lawyer. He is efficient in his communication and is able to identify solutions to most legal issues in a pragmatic way. I would strongly recommend Duncan to any firm looking support with fund formation work.’
Key clients
Blackrock
Fidelity
JP Morgan Asset Management
PGIM
Montana capital partners
KKR
Insight Investment
Alliance Bernstein
AllSpring
HSBC Asset Management
Apollo
Work highlights
Reed Smith LLP
Reed Smith LLP handles a range of fund formation, managed account and investment matters for investment managers, and demonstrates particular skill in impact, litigation and digital infrastructure funds work. The team is jointly led by private equity specialist Panos Katsambas, who is dual qualified in the UK and US, and Shervin Shameli, who is recommended for his work in the energy space. The ‘hugely knowledgeable and helpful’ Brendan Gallen, experienced in credit impact and real estate funds, is also a core part of the team.
Practice head(s):
Panos Katsambas; Shervin Shameli
Other key lawyers:
Brendan Gallen; Matt Evans
Testimonials
‘They’re hungry for work and new opportunities. The team shows enthusiasm to help new clients, and you can see their willingness to invest in clients and their projects. They’ve got good experience in less typical asset classes – including litigation funding. Practical, sensible, do not over-complicate, put client first and effective. Just what I look for in a legal adviser.’
‘Brendan Gallen was hugely knowledgeable and helpful during our recent fundraise. He dealt with numerous requests and processes, both internal and external, in a timely manner and contributed significantly to the success of the fund. I take a lot of comfort in his advice. He is very service minded and always available and helpful. He is well aware of what is standard and what is unique requirements. He is very good at balancing the risk correctly.’
‘Shervin Shameli was very patient with us and explained this area of the law clearly. His explanations were clear and succinct’
Work highlights
Ropes & Gray LLP
Ropes & Gray handles a wide range of mandates spanning GP and LP led matters, fund formation and transactions within the secondaries market. The team is led by the highly experienced Tom Alabaster, whose primary focus is on the EMEA markets. Alabaster is supported by Emily Brown, who has expansive expertise in cross-jurisdictional matters, specialising in venture capital and co-investments. Lavanya Raghavan, Chris Townsend and Alex Chauvin are also integral to the team.
Practice head(s):
Tom Alabaster
Other key lawyers:
Emily Brown; Lavanya Raghavan; Chris Townsend; Alex Chauvin
Key clients
Golding Capital Partners
Incus Capital
Work highlights
- Advised Incus Capital in respect of the structuring and formation of its fourth flagship European credit opportunities fund reaching its hard cap of €650m in November 2022.
- Advising Golding Capital Partners in respect of its €578m infrastructure co-investment fund 2020, €200m private debt fund 2020 and €300m (target) impact fund to help golding to expand its investor-base outside of Germany with the structuring and formation of parallel fund vehicles to accommodate international investors from the rest of Europe, the US and Asia.
Baker McKenzie
Baker McKenzie acts for a diverse client base of prominent fund sponsors, institutional investors and financial institutions. The group advises on a broad spectrum of fund structures, including blind pool funds, club deals, co-investments, consortium arrangements and separate managed accounts. Practice head James Burdett is recommended for broad knowledge of consortium and co-investment arrangements within the infrastructure and real estate sectors. Asset management sector expert Mark Simpson and regulatory specialist Caitlin McErlane are key names within the practice.
Practice head(s):
James Burdett
Other key lawyers:
Mark Simpson; Caitlin McErlane
Testimonials
‘They know our issues and sensitivities well. The generally high quality of their work, make it easy to turn to them for our large, important transactions.’
‘James Burdett, very good commercially-minded lawyer.’
‘James Burdett stands out, he goes above and beyond to provide advice and guidance.’
Key clients
Government Pension Fund of Thailand
Government of Singapore Investment Corporation
Arcus Infrastructure Partners
Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corporation
Iliad Partners Management
Pollination Capital partners Limited
The Townsend Group
Allianz Capital Partners
Montecito Equity Partners
Sera Global
ARCH Emerging Markets Partners
Triton Partners
Chatham Financial
Zenzic Capital
Equinix
The Sovereign Fund of Egypt
Work highlights
- Acted for Equinix, Inc. on the establishment of a USD 575m joint venture with PGIM Real Estate in the form of a limited liability partnership to develop and operate two xScale data centers in Sydney, Australia. The firm also assisted with the signing of an agreement to form a USD 525m joint venture in the form of a limited liability partnership with GIC, Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund, to develop and operate two xScale data centers in Seoul, South Korea.
- Advising Ilaid Partners Management, a United Arab Emirates based venture capital firm on the establishment of its regulated investment management firm in the Abu Dhabi Global Market and the establishment of a new venture capital fund.
- Advising Townsend Holdings LLP and a number of its institutional investor clients including corporate pension funds, public pension funds and sovereign wealth funds on investments and co-investments into infrastructure funds and assets.
Dechert LLP
Dechert LLP‘s funds team is recommended for its handling of first-time private equity fund launches and its cross-jurisdictional capability, in close cooperation between the London practice and the firm’s Luxembourg and Ireland teams. Practice head Gus Black is an expert in private equity, private credit and private real estate fund formation and secondaries. Black is supported by ‘great legal mind’ Christopher Gardner, the experienced Thiha Tun and Marianna Tothova, who is dual qualified in England and Wales, and Luxembourg. The firm recently expanded its practice with the addition of Sam Kay, a private equity funds specialist who joined the team from Travers Smith LLP in July 2023.
Practice head(s):
Gus Black
Other key lawyers:
Chris Gardner; Nathalie Sadler; Matt Duxbury; Thiha Tun; Marianna Tothova; Claire Bentley; Sam Kay
Testimonials
‘The team has got great depth and there is expertise across the team. They are responsive and reliably produce great product.’
‘Matt Duxbury is great.’
‘Dechert has a market leading private funds practice that encompasses a wide range of asset classes; Dechert also has all of the necessary support departments under one roof (tax, regulatory, derivatives etc.) and is able to provide multi-jurisdictional advice (in particular across UK, Luxembourg and US) to a very high level’
‘Nathalie Sadler: knowledgeable; very responsive and diligent; quickly gets to the heart of the issue
‘Gus Black: one of leading funds lawyers in the market; extremely knowledgeable; aware of all recent market developments; able to devise practical solutions to complex problems under time pressure.’
‘Great experience in fund structuring, collaborative, solution-oriented and responsive’
‘Chris Gardner has a great legal mind and a great solutions-oriented business person. He has worked closely with our team through a transaction that was extremely difficult. Always helpful, responsive and diplomatic.’
‘Excellent partners. Very responsive and commercially aware. Delivery focused.’
Key clients
Graham Partners Inc.
Blixt Partners LLP
Columna Capital LLP
Work highlights
- Advised Graham Partners in its capacity as the general partner of Graham Partners IV L.P., in connection with the exit by GP IV of OptConnect into a continuation fund.
- Advised a global real estate investment manager on the formation of an SFDR-compliant Article 8 private-equity style closed-end, commingled private investment fund targeting real estate assets in a green strategy.
- Advised Blixt Partners LLP on the final closing of Blixt Fund I LP, a Cayman Islands limited partnership, and the structuring of the corresponding carried interest vehicle.
DLA Piper
DLA Piper‘s private funds practice is headed up by James O’Donnell, a funds related transactions expert noted by clients for his ‘excellent technical skills‘ and advice ‘of the highest quality‘. He is supported by the fund establishment and structuring focused Jonathan Powling and private equity and tax specialist Richard Woolich. Up-and-coming practitioners to note at the firm include the ‘stand out‘ Hannah Watson-Fanin, who focuses on institutional investors, private equity expert Michael Graham and Sam Whittaker, who is notable for his multijurisdictional experience, having advised clients in areas such as the Cayman Islands and Jersey. The firm is recommended for its ESG related work, handling investments into climate technologies and sustainable agriculture.
Practice head(s):
James O’Donnell
Other key lawyers:
Jonathan Powling; Richard Woolich; Sam Whittaker; Michael Graham; Hannah Watson-Fanin
Testimonials
‘Specialist focus on acting for LPs which means that the team is able to provide genuine insight into what terms they see in market, and push for best practice positions for their LP clients.’
‘James O’Donnell has excellent technical skills, while offering pragmatic advice, and is tenacious in ensuring the best outcome possible for his clients.’
‘James O’Donnell is a leading (if not the leading) investor-side funds formation legal adviser. His advice is of the highest quality and he is hands-on, unlike many partners in the funds formation world. He has acted for the largest institutional investors out there, and has single-handedly turned back the dial to give investors better legal protections than GPs typically are willing to agree to, which he often achieves by representing consortia of investors, rather than individual investors, which make negotiating against GPs far more effective.’
‘DLA are one of the most detail-oriented law firms when advising investors into private funds. They understand the market incredibly well and will pick up on points which I wouldn’t expect other law firms to pick up. DLA are incredibly strong negotiators and I know we always get the best service from them.’
‘Hannah Watson-Fanin is a stand-out senior associate in the team and she understands our business and the market incredibly well. I also have to mention James O’Donnell, the partner who heads up the team. His knowledge of private fund investment work is unrivalled.’
Work highlights
- Advised Greensphere Capital LLP, via its climate incubator Gaia Sciences Innovation, about its joint venture with the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew to invest up to GBP100 million in plant and fungal science spinouts, with applications ranging from sustainable agriculture to habitat restoration in the UK and internationally.
- Assisted the Chief Innovation Office of Aviva Investors with four strategic investments in venture capital funds with sustainable and ESG-related investment strategies.
- Continuing to advise Leafy Tunnel about its medicinal cannabis and psychedelic companies, the first of its type in Europe.
Hogan Lovells International LLP
Hogan Lovells International LLP's team is known for its strengths in advising on issues concerning infrastructure funds, as well as venture capital, private equity and impact funds, with notable clients including Abrdn and FMO. Practice head Nicholas Holman is recommended for his 'excellent technical and market knowledge'. Jeremy Pickles has ample experience in both fund formation and GP-led secondaries. Amelia Stawpert and Leanne Moezi are notable names within the team.
Practice head(s):
Nicholas Holman
Other key lawyers:
Amelia Stawpert; Leanne Moezi
Testimonials
‘Commitment to the transaction, knowledge and expertise.’
‘Nicholas Holman’s experience and counsel set him apart from other advisors.’
‘Nick is a fantastic partner with excellent technical and market knowledge, which he applies in a commercial way as a trusted advisor to the business.’
Key clients
abrdn plc
British Business Bank
Foundation Investment Partners
FMO
Pantheon Ventures
Ventures Platform Limited
Eurazeo
Committed Advisors
Innagreen Investments
EG Capital
Work highlights
- Advised abrdn, and their JV partner Investcorp, on the launch of their latest concession infrastructure investment vehicle, domiciled in the Abu Dhabi global market and forming part of their Gulf Region concession infrastructure investment fund platform.
- Advised International Finance Corporation (IFC), Proparco and DEG on their consortium investment in Crescera Fund V, a Brazilian private equity impact fund investing in Brazilian companies with a health, education, technology, retail, services and consumer sector focus.
- Advised Innagreen Investments on the launch of its new global renewable energy fund, seeking to raise US$1bn in investor commitments with an initial commitment of US$150m investment from Morrison &Co.
Latham & Watkins
Latham & Watkins is recommended for fund formation, JVs & strategic partnerships, secondaries and investor representation, acting for a host of high-profile international clients. The practice notably includes tech sector funds specialist James McCrory, and Nick Benson, who has experience across the buyout, venture, technology, infrastructure, and credit spaces. Counsel Clare Scott is also highly recommended, offering particular expertise in sovereign wealth funds and green and climate investment funds. Mateja Maher and Adrian Grocock joined the team from Sidley Austin LLP in July 2023.
Other key lawyers:
Nick Benson; James McCrory; Mateja Maher; Clare Scott; Adrian Grocock
Testimonials
‘Not only is the team is very proficient but they have a strong commercial sense and help a lot in negotiations and strategy. The team is well-connected across different geographies and we feel that we are dealing with one team; despite working with different teams across different continents.’
‘Very high quality of work and very efficient, we feel they are part of our team; not external counsel. Always available and never disappoint.’
Key clients
LaSalle
IFM Investors
Chimera Capital
VSQ Capital II
OMERS Infrastructure
OMERS Capital Markets
Azimut Alternative Capital Partners
Flashpoint Venture Capital
I Squared Capital
Work highlights
Macfarlanes LLP
Macfarlanes LLP stands out for its strength in advising on high value fundraisings in relation to credit and special situation funds. Growth and impact funds are also areas of expertise for the team, with the firm’s cross-practice ESG group being a key feature of its offering. Practice head Stephen Ross, who joined the firm from Sidley Austin LLP in January 2023, specialises in advising on structuring private equity, venture capital and infrastructure funds. Robinson is supported by the ‘highly professional, responsive and thoughtful’ Harriet Miller, as well as Sam Brooks, a specialist in credit funds. Christopher Good and Alexander Amos are also key names within the team. The firm further strengthened its bench with the addition of Peter Chapman as a partner in September 2023, also from Sidley.
Practice head(s):
Stephen Ross
Other key lawyers:
Harriet Miller; Christopher Good; Alexander Amos; Sam Brooks; Stephen Robinson
Testimonials
‘Good reliable and knowledgeable people.’
‘Thoughtful and don’t panic easily. There is always a solution and the team have helped me find it.’
‘MacFarlanes team occupies a superb niche position. They have proved to retained and developed a lot of clients even without their own US offering. They are a class act, both associates and partners.’
‘We use Macfarlanes as our legal advisor across multiple funds – the approach and values of the team that we work with match our own and we find working with the team to be straightforward, with prompt advice.’
‘Harriet Miller is our go to partner for all fund related matters and she generally operates as our gateway into other work streams as we find her to be highly professional, responsive and thoughtful as well as approachable.’
‘We have worked with Harriet Miller and Stephen Robinson for a number of years on a number of fundraisings and ancillary matters. Their work is consistently of an extremely high quality and delivered efficiently. The advice we receive is thorough and commercially focused.’
Key clients
Synova
Hayfin
abrdn
17Capital
CBPE
Muzinich & Co
Cross Ocean
Alcentra
ECI
Northern Gritstone
Work highlights
- Advising Synova on its firth round which closed at its hard cap of £875m.
- Advising Asper investment management Limited on its launch of a new sustainable UK infrastructure fund.
- Advising abrdn on its latest real estate debt fund, CRED II, which held a closing of £205m.
Pinsent Masons LLP
Known for its deep expertise in general fund structuring and asset management issues, Pinsent Masons LLP is noted for advising impact funds which are focused on investment into sustainable agriculture and climate tech. The team is headed by impact fund formation and development finance expert Ian Warner. Oliver Crowley is well versed in handling fund structuring matters across a variety of asset classes. Mark Shaw is qualified to practice in Luxembourg, and is a key name to note.
Practice head(s):
Ian Warner
Other key lawyers:
Oliver Crowley; Mark Shaw; Rebecca Clark
Testimonials
‘Pinsent Masons understands our business so much that they are almost an extension of our in-house legal team. They go above and beyond for us on a daily basis.’
‘Oliver Crowley is the stand-out partner who is so present on all our work. I said to him the other day that he’s my personal chatGPT as I can approach him on any question and he’s always happy to help. I couldn’t recommend him more highly and feel very lucky that we have him to help us with our work.’
‘Rebecca Clark is often requested by our business to work with given her understanding of our business and her expertise.’
Key clients
ABRDN
Accelerated Digital Ventures Limited
Aegon Asset Management
Aegon Private Equity Pool
Asian Development Bank
British International Investment plc
Bricks Capital Limited
Coal Pension Trustees Limited
Dalmore Capital Limited
Environment Agency Pension Fund
Fife Pension Fund
HSBC
HRL Morrison & Co
International Finance Corporation
Gresham House
LCN Capital Partners
Lothian Pension Fund
Merseyside Pension Fund
Michelin Pension Trustees
NEST
NILGOSC
Northeast Scotland Pension Fund
PfP Capital Limited
Phoenix Life
Railpen Investments
Regenerate Asset Management
Resonance Impact Investment Limited
RWE/E.ON Trustees
Sango Private Equity
Scottish National Investment Bank
Scottish Widows
Southwark Pension Fund
Stichting Pensioenfonds KPN
Strathclyde Pension Fund
Systemiq Capital
TKPI Real Estate Fund
Unilever UK Central Resources Limited
University of Liverpool Pension Fund
West Yorkshire Combined Authority
Work highlights
- Advised Regenerate Asset Management in the launch of its €300m Regenerate European Sustainable Agriculture fund with M&G as cornerstone investor – a new natural capital fund set up to invest in sustainable agriculture across Europe
- Assisting in the launch of Systemiq Capital’s second fund which is targeting $200m to back the best early-stage climate tech entrepreneurs.
- Supporting Unilever on its joint venture with AXA and Tikehau to establish a $1bn impact fund focusing on regenerative agriculture, facilitating Unilever’s net zero targets with regard to global supply chain infrastructure.
Sidley Austin LLP
Sidley Austin LLP‘s investment funds practice dispenses advice on a wide range of private equity and credit strategies, including distressed debt, funding solutions, speciality lending, and litigation funding. The team is led by James Oussedik, who has vast knowledge of private fund formation issues concerning hedge funds and infrastructure funds. Mateja Maher and Adrian Grocock left the firm to join Latham & Watkins in July 2023.
Practice head(s):
James Oussedik
Key clients
AllianceBernstein
North Wall Capital
PineBridge Investments
Lodbrok Capital
Moonfare
Valence8
Roundshield Partners LLP
Synthesis Capital
Queen’s Park Equity
Allianz Capital Partners
Work highlights
- Advisng AllianceBernstein on the creation of its European commercial real estate debt platform, including complex areas of regulation affecting both investors and fund structures.
- Advising North Wall Capital on the full suite of funds, regulatory, and tax matters, in relation to an array of private credit assets, including multiple fundraisings covering a second vintage flagship fundraise, co-investment structures and litigation financing vehicles.
- Acts for Pinebridge in matters across primary fund and secondary transactions, including buy-side representations in structured secondary and continuation fund transactions.
Willkie Farr & Gallagher (UK) LLP
Willkie Farr & Gallagher (UK) LLP's practice is noted for handling a myriad of issues involving private equity fund formation, single asset funds, LP side representation and secondary transactions. The team is led by secondaries specialist Solomon Wifa, who has experience handling transactions involving multiple jurisdictions including China, sub-Saharan Africa, India, Turkey, and Central and Eastern Europe. Regulatory expert Henrietta de Salis and the 'commercial and organised' Colin Fulton, who primarily advises private investment fund sponsors, are also core members of the team.
Practice head(s):
Solomon Wifa
Other key lawyers:
Henrietta De Salis; Colin Fulton
Testimonials
‘Colin Fulton is very commercial and organised. He works hard to ensure our matters are handled efficiently and effectively.’
‘We recommend Henrietta De Salis and Colin Fulton.’
‘The team was extremely efficient. We have had transactions on very tight timelines and they have been able to meet them timeously.’
‘Incredibly responsive and dedicated to their clients.’
‘Colin and the tam at Wilkie support with our transaction execution. They are very well-organised and efficient and have worked hard to understand our business and systems.’
‘Solomon Wifa is very responsive and knowledgeable and provides practical advice.’
‘Solomon Wifa continues to distinguish himself through his depth of experience, commercial understanding and his solid grasp of the key stakeholder considerations. He is one of a kind advisor and I enthusiastically vouch for the quality of his advice.’
Key clients
Insight Partners
Uhuru Partners
Talomon Capital Limited
Franklin Templeton Investments
Stanley Capital
Work highlights
- Advised Insight Partners on its $1.3 bn fundraising, including closing the fund.
- Advising Uhuru Partners on the structuring and raising of its flagship fund, Uhuru Growth Fund I, L.P.
Addleshaw Goddard
Addleshaw Goddard is described by clients as the 'go-to' team for small to mid-market RE and PE managers. Daniel Woolston is noted for his expertise in private equity and real estate funds. Woolston co-heads the team alongside Jan Grüter, who is recommended for advising on the raising of sustainability-focused funds and related investment products, as well as emerging GPs within the PE space. Aidan McConville is a key name within the practice.
Practice head(s):
Daniel Woolston; Jan Gruter
Other key lawyers:
Aidan McConville
Testimonials
‘Jan Gruter combines exceptional technical knowledge and awareness of the regulatory landscape with a sound appreciation of the commercial intent of us as clients. Added to this, we have found his client service and leadership of his team to be exceptionally good.’
‘They are business oriented and pragmatic with a high level of knowledge.’
‘They are always available and Jan Gruter is valuable lawyer with good knowledge, and he is business oriented.’
‘This is a genuinely excellent team. High quality advice, both legal and commercial.’
‘Jan Gruter – excellent partner, very user-friendly.’
‘They are a go-to team for small to mid market RE and PE managers.’
‘Addleshaws distinguish themselves with their annual market trends report which is always incredibly helpful. They have taken the time to fully understand our business and they provide us with value-add advice accordingly.’
‘I wanted to mention Aidan McConville particularly – he will meet any deadline, we always feel that we are his priority (even I’m sure he has competing priorities constantly!) and he will go the extra mile to get an investment over the line.’
Key clients
Bridges Fund Management Limited
New Forests Pty Limited
Hakluyt Capital
Agathos| Management LLP
AS Equity Partners
Pension Protection Fund
The National LGPS Framework
Cirrus Inns
Magnetar| Financial (UK) LLP
Angelo Gordon
British International Investment
Goddess Gaia Ventures
NBS Ventures
YFM Private Equity
Warrington Borough Council
Par Equity
Ecotree
Northtree| Investment Management Limited
Actis| LLP
Federated Hermes Lim|i|ted
Ares Management
Work highlights
- Advised New Forests Pty on the formation of the African Forestry Impact Platform, a Singapore VCC fund investing in commercial forestry projects in Africa, and targeting USD 500m in commitments.
- Advised global strategic advisory firm Hakluyt & Co Ltd on the launch of its new investment arm Hakluyt Capital and the raise of its first fund investing in high growth companies with target commitment of USD 50m.
- Appointed to the legal panel for the Pension Protection Fund of the Pension Protection Fund, the £39bn statutory insurance company for defined benefit pension schemes in the UK.
Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP
Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP acts for numerous sponsors and asset managers in matters concerning the structuring, formation and promotion of investment funds across various asset classes, with emphasis on real estate funds. Practice head Michael Newel has vast expertise in advising asset management clients on the establishment and reorganization of onshore and offshore collective investment vehicles. Jack Andrew Kelly is a key name within the practice.
Practice head(s):
Michael Newell
Other key lawyers:
Jack Andrew Kelly
Testimonials
‘The Cadwalader team offers tailored made services to its clients. It is very efficient, puts its expertise at its clients’ service. It has a good knowledge of its clients’ features and specific requirements.’
‘Jack Kelly is very efficient and has a good knowledge of our firm’s specific requirements which is very valuable to assist us during the negotiations of the fund documents. He is very responsive and available. It is always a pleasure to work with him.’
Key clients
Constantine Group Limited
ReSI Capital Management Limited
Civitas Investment Management Limited
Gresham House Asset Management Limited
Schroder Real Estate Investment Management Limited
Threadmark Partners Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Constantine on the structuring and formation of a real estate and private equity investment vehicle whose principal purpose is the forward funding and subsequent acquisition and operation of battery energy storage system assets.
- Advised ReSI Capital Management Limited on the second close of Gresham House Residential Secure Income LP, an English real estate fund.
Curtis, Mallet-Prevost, Colt & Mosle LLP
Curtis, Mallet-Prevost, Colt & Mosle LLP houses a 'responsive, thorough and approachable' funds team, which handles the full spectrum of issues clients, including state backed investors, banks and energy and tech funds. Thomas Laurer and Ryan Hansen, who are experienced in domestic and offshore fund formation and regulatory compliance, jointly lead the team. Practice co-head Daniel Lewin is a tax law expert who primarily advises on the tax aspects of funds.
Practice head(s):
Thomas Laurer; Ryan Hansen; Daniel Lewin
Other key lawyers:
Angus Thompson; Sophia Briffa
Testimonials
‘The team is first-rate, with an astonishing breadth of top-flight work.’
‘Daniel Lewin is a brilliant tax lawyer.’
‘Responsive, thorough and approachable.’
‘When you’re a not a lawyer, you want a team that fills in the blanks; and there are many when you’re a first-time manager. I feel comfortable with this team that there won’t be any surprises, that they know what I don’t know, and I feel as though they always have my best interests at heart.’
‘Thomas Laurer and Angus Thompson are my point people as I build out the fund. I love how they approach this relationship as a long-term investment and not a transactional exercise. It is refreshing. I have a lot of trust in both of them.’
‘The core team has excellent fund formation and management experience. They’re familiar with many different formation structures, investment strategies and jurisdictions. I’ve also found them to be more personally invested in the process with rapid response times.’
‘The individuals are very intelligent, receptive to feedback, and do not treat you as another horse in the stable. It’s a bespoke and highly personal service.’
‘They are highly pragmatic and listen to their clients needs and offer clear and simple solutions’
Key clients
Energy Finance Partners
Burgan Bank
United Gulf Bank
Brevet Capital
HBM Partners
Quantum Capital
Ibex Investors
Oman Technology Fund
BC Partners
Oman Investment Authority
Thena Capital
Btomorrow Ventures
Public Authority for Social Insurance (Oman)
Vauban Technologies
Genuine Capital Advisers
Pegasus Capital Advisors
Pearls Capital
Greyfinch Capital
Untitled Advisers
Work highlights
- Representing the Oman Investment Authority on its closed-ended fund investment program. The team advises OIA on all aspects of the investment program, including undertaking legal and tax due diligence on the underlying funds, negotiating terms of OIA’s investment, structuring OIA’s investment and coordinating closing and post-closing matters.
- Represents Brevet Capital Management, a US-based investment manager, on a range of matters relating to fund formation, investments, regulatory issues, compliance and day-to-day operational issues.
- Contuining to act for KIPCO Group and its subsidiaries United Gulf Bank and Burgan Bank in connection with their private funds investment program, investing in a wide variety of strategies including private equity, venture capital, real estate and fixed income.
Herbert Smith Freehills LLP
Recommended for dispensing ‘technically sound’ advice, Herbert Smith Freehills LLP‘s team is well versed in handling GP-side and LP-side matters for sovereign wealth funds. The firm exhibits deep knowledge in infrastructure funds and energy sector related work. The practice is led by Tim West, and Jonathan Blake and Stephen Newby are also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Tim West
Other key lawyers:
Jonathan Blake; Stephen Newby
Testimonials
‘Team are really interested in our sector and act in a collaborative, commercial way rather than seeing counterparties as adversaries. They don’t get stuck in legal theory – pragmatic in approach.’
‘Stephen Newby takes the time to chat through issues and really understand the problem/matter at hand before providing a quote, and will raise issues as part of the RFP process, even before he knows he has the work, which demonstrates genuine interest in building a long term relationship. Very down to earth and a great sounding board.’
‘Technically sound and practical advice and good collaboration across jurisdictions’
‘Dedicated and talented people. Great service all round’
‘Stephen Newby is a stand out – one of the best in the industry’
Key clients
Acacia Research Corporation
AEW Europe LLP
Baillie Gifford & Co
Balance Legal Capital LLP
BNP Paribas Asset Management
Cabot Square Capital LLP
Cinven Partners LLP
CNIC Corporation Limited
CVC Capital Partners
Fidelity Investments Inc.
Floreat Private Limited
HarbourVest Partners (UK) Limited
Hastings Investment Management Limited
HSBC Global Asset Management (UK) Limited
Insight Investment Management
JPMorgan Asset Management
KKR & Co. Inc.
Local Pensions Partnership Investments Ltd
M&G Investment Management Limited
Moorfield Group Limited
Neuberger Berman Private Equity
Niam Private Equity
Orchard Street Investment Management LLP
Pala Investments Limited
Permira
Quadria Capital
Signature Group
Stichting DNGB Fonds II
Sustainable Development Capital
Tristan Capital Partners
Vista Equity Partner
Work highlights
- Acted for JGGI on a proposed combination with JPE pursuant to a scheme of reconstruction under section 110 of the Insolvency Act 1986
- Advised HRL Morrison & Co’s open-ended global infrastructure fund on their partnership with Innagreen Investment to acquire energy assets globally.
- Assisted Alberta Investment Management Corporation in relation to the establishment of a joint venture for investment in UK battery storage assets, including advising on the development documentation.
K&L Gates LLP
Recommended for advising clients on complex private equity fund structures as well as spin outs, K&L Gates LLP is led by Daniel Greenaway who leverages his prior experience working in the tax field to advise GPs on impact-linked carried interest structures.
Practice head(s):
Daniel Greenaway
Other key lawyers:
Jin Enyi; Laura Price
Testimonials
‘This is an excellent team with deep experience and a very commercial approach.’
‘Exceptionally professional, responsive and courteous.’
‘We have worked with Daniel Greenaway and his team in fund structuring using Scottish Limited partnerships and find him and his team are exceptionally good at what they do and hard wording. They are also incredibly responsive and on the ball on technical issues.’
‘We have worked with Daniel Greenaway – he offers strong commercial knowledge, a comprehensive understanding of funds and excellent technical knowledge.’
‘We have worked with Laura Price who is an associate in Daniel’s team. We have been impressed by her responsiveness and eye for detail.’
‘The firm boasts a team of highly skilled and personable lawyers with extensive experience covering many industries and practice areas. Their deep understanding of the unique dynamics and intricacies of private equity transactions enables them to provide tailored legal advice and solutions.’
‘Collaboration is a hallmark of K&L Gates globally and its their global footprint that allows them to serve clients like us in multiple jurisdictions.’
‘Great team to work with. Very responsive, highly personable, exceptional output.’
Key clients
TriSpan
Future Business Partnership
Flywheel Partners
Astarte Capital
Seek Ventures
Inspirit Capital
Work highlights
- Advising TriSpan on raising its new Rising Stars fund.
- Advising Future Business Partnership, which invests in sustainable brands through raising ethically-motivated capital.
- Advising Inspirit Capital on its second fund.
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius UK LLP
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius UK LLP is known for representing multinational financial institutions as sponsors of funds, investors into funds, co-investors in unquoted companies, and as participants in the secondaries market in relation to purchasing and selling fund interests. The team is led by asset management sector specialist Simon Currie. Currie is supported by venture capital, infrastructure and debt funds expert Robert Mailer as well as the impact funds focused Oliver Rochman .
Practice head(s):
Simon Currie
Other key lawyers:
Oliver Rochman; Rob Mailer; Tayne Rankine; Eliska Macnerova
Testimonials
‘Very responsive, listens to pain points from previous work together and works closely with us to resolve them.’
‘Oliver Rochman goes above and beyond to help us understand any complexities, and ensure that processes are as smooth and pain-free as possible.’
‘Transitioned seamlessly from fundraising support to closing activity. The team has been efficient and a great lead / co-lead in discussions and negotiations. Issues are closed decisively and our LPs feel well handled.’
‘Oliver Rochman is an excellent lead for the team. His sharing of information, organisation of tasks and dispatching of obligations is unmatched.’
‘The team at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius has been fantastic. They are extremely knowledgeable, committed and became a trusted partner of our organisation.’
‘MLB has been our counsel for fund formation and also our regulatory counsel. They provide global coverage and make it a point to understand and know the firm, its practices at all levels, not just on the legal side. Key strengths are that the coverage is continuous from time zone to time zone.’
‘The best quality is that they are responsive, thoughtful about their approach and they are considerate. The different offices communicate with each other so that the transfer of information is seamless.’
‘Rob Mailer is an incredibly commercial lawyer. He is good at finding solutions to unique issues in a practical manner. He is also very available and always happy to chat through reasoning. Highly recommend.’
Key clients
Pictet & Cie
JP Morgan
Various Institutional Investor clients
Credit Suisse AG
Digital Colony
Stone Harbor Investment Partners
Freemont Management SA
Hoxton Ventures
Work highlights
- Represented Swiss fund manager Pictet & Cie on global secondary transactions and primary investments in infrastructure, private equity and debt/credit funds
- Represents JP Morgan’s Private Equity Group on an ongoing basis in connection with commingled fund investments and co-investments made by its commingled and single-investor private equity funds.
Schulte Roth & Zabel International LLP
Schulte Roth & Zabel International LLP is noted for its domestic and transatlantic capabilities. Specialist areas of expertise for the practice include hedge funds and litigation finance funds. The team is led jointly by 'solution orientated' private equity fund structuring specialist Josh Dambacher, and closed-end credit and distressed credit funds expert Christopher Hilditch. The experienced Jim McNally and tax expert Dan Roman are key members of the team.
Practice head(s):
Josh Dambacher; Christopher Hilditch
Other key lawyers:
Jim McNally; Dan Roman
Testimonials
‘I would say that industry knowledge, particularly with respect to hedge fund management, is what sets the firm and team apart. SRZ knows our particularly industry as well as or better than anyone, and we are always confident that they will provide the most up-to-date and well-informed guidance.’
‘Outstanding team at all levels of seniority led by an outstanding leadership, Josh Dambacher in particular. The team has strength and depth and is undoubtedly one of the leading shops for closed ended, hybrid and credit funds.’
‘Josh Dambacher stands out as the brightest, most solution orientated, creative and best technical lawyer I know. He is commercial and immensely responsive. He is super knowledgeable in UK and US law issues, including tax and regulatory.’
Key clients
Alpha Wave Global LP
AB CarVal Investors L.P.
Bybrook Capital LLP
Emso Asset Management Limited
Fidera Vecta Limited
Flight Story Ventures LLP
Kingsway Capital Partners Limited
Marshall Wace LLP
Naya Capital Management UK Limited
Orchard Global Asset Management LLP
Work highlights
- Advised Fidera Vecta Limited on its establishment and spin-out terms from York Capital Management.
- Assisted Securis Investment Partners LLP with the launch of Securis Life Fund IV, formed to invest in life-related and health-related investments.
- Representing Gatemore Capital Management LLP in the formation of its flagship Cayman Islands private equity fund, Gatemore Special Opportunities Fund II.
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom (UK) LLP
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom (UK) LLP advises a broad client base of asset managers and sovereign wealth funds. Practice head Greg Norman is noted for having a great deal of expertise in private fund capitalization and structuring, as well as the formation and regulation of private capital sponsors, including investment managers and advisers. Wendy Li and Abigail Reeves are key contributors within the team.
Practice head(s):
Greg Norman
Other key lawyers:
Wendy Li; Abigail Reeves
Testimonials
‘Funds based knowledge combined with in-depth knowledge and understanding of our business and structure’
‘Greg Norman is very responsive, pragmatic and has great drafting skills – good at translating difficult commercial and economic concepts into simple drafting.’
Key clients
Crosstree Real Estate Partners LLP
IPI Partners
B-Flexion
Citigroup
South American Investment bank
Northzone
Work highlights
- Represented a sovereign wealth fund in connection with its €150m co-investment, alongside a European real estate venture fund, into a flagship shopping centre located in Berlin.
- Represented a sovereign wealth fund in connection with its $100m commitment to the latest Warburg Pincus Asia real estate fund.
- Advised IPI Partners, LLC and its portfolio company, Supernap Italia, on the financing for the construction of a purpose built 5.6MW data centre near Milan, Italy.
Stephenson Harwood
Stephenson Harwood's practice which assists a number of clients in secondaries sector across a variety of European jurisdictions. Practice head Gabriel Boghossian is known for his vast experience in advising on secondary transactions, having handled the structuring and negotiation of a high volume of GP-led deals. Sarah de Ste Croix has broad knowledge of fundraisings.
Practice head(s):
Gabriel Boghossian
Other key lawyers:
Sarah de Ste Croix
Key clients
Ufenau Capital Partners
Deutsche Private Equity
Tesco Pension Trustees Limited
Five Arrows (Rothschild)
Horizon Capital
Capiton AG
Verium AG
Schroders Capital
EMERAM Capital Partners
Northleaf Capital
Kline Hill Partners
BVK Personalvorsorge des Kantons Zürich
Shard Credit Partners Limited
Unigestion SA
Railpen Pension Trustee Company Limited
LifeArc
Work highlights
- Advised Ufenau, a Swiss private equity fund, in their GP-led secondaries transaction selling Altano and Corius from Ufenau’s fifth fund to a newly established continuation vehicle.
- Advised Deutsche Private Equity, in their inaugurate GP-led secondary transaction, selling two leading European technology and digital transformation consultancies acquired by DPE’s third fund to a newly established continuation vehicle.
- Acted for TPTL in connection with its sale of a portfolio of 47 limited partnership interests.