Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP > Rome, Italy > Firm Profile
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP Offices

PIAZZA DI SPAGNA 15
00187 ROME
Italy
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Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
Italy > EU and competition law Tier 1
Containing an ‘excellent’ competition practice, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP is experienced in competition issues across the globe, advising Italian and multinational firms on restrictive agreements, State aid and abuse of dominant positions matters. The firm is particularly well-versed in assisting clients before the European Commission in both M&A authorisations and investigations. Spearheading the team, the Rome-based Mario Siragusa is an experienced antitrust litigator, and Milan-based Matteo Beretta is adept at merger control procedures. Alice Setari is noted within the team for her assistance in investigations brought by competition authorities. In July 2024, Marco D’Ostuni left the firm.Practice head(s):
Mario Siragusa; Matteo Beretta
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘They are able to provide all-round customer care.’
‘They are very professional, focused on client’s needs and very competent.’
‘Strong knowledge, competence and partnership.’
‘This practice is probably the most well-known in Italy and it deserves such a success due to the outstanding level of competence, experience and attention to the client.’
‘Mario Siragusa is the top lawyer in competition law.’
‘Mario Siragusa is exceptional. An incredible communicator and strategic advisor. One of the best in the business.’
‘Matteo Beretta is knowledgeable, helpful and attentive to customer needs.’
‘It is one of the best competition practices, if not the best, I have dealt with. They are excellent.’
Key clients
TIM
A2A
F2i and Ardian
IREN Mercato
Unicredit
Ryanair DAC
Illumina
Smurfit Kappa
CONOU
Avis Budget Italia S.p.A.
ENI
Asterion Industrial Partners
F. Hoffmann-La Roche
Lactalis
PETRONAS
Servizio Elettrico Nazionale
SNAM
QuattroR
Work highlights
- Represented TIM in a case involving the provision of value-added services delivered through non-geographic numbers.
- Advised A2A in relation to a sale and purchase agreement with e-distribuzione, an Enel Group company active in the electricity distribution sector.
- Acting as counsel to F2i and Ardian in the contemplated sale to Italgas of gas distribution group 2i Rete Gas.
Italy > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 2
With ‘cutting-edge knowledge’, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton’s corporate and M&A practice consistently advises on pharma, energy, infrastructure, transportation, TMT and financial institutions-related M&A. Giuseppe Scassellati-Sforzolini‘s broad practice encompasses public and private M&A; Roberto Bonsignore has ‘deep knowledge of M&A and the relevant players’; Matteo Montanaro is experienced in significant domestic and cross-border acquisitions and divestitures, as well as joint venture deals, mergers and other corporate reorganisations; and David Singer is a highly-regarded corporate practitioner. Paolo Rainelli, Gerolamo da Passano and Giulia Rimoldi are additional names to note.Practice head(s):
Giuseppe Scassellati-Sforzolini; Roberto Bonsignore; Matteo Montanaro; David Singer
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘CGSH stands out as a firm, having cutting-edge knowledge of the market, always working with accuracy and being ready to deliver quick results.’
‘Partners who are always very available, precise and results-oriented. They move confidently across complex transactions. ’
‘Great attention to any detail and passionate about resolving clients’ issues.’
‘Very analytical and prepared. Solution-oriented and positive attitude.’
‘The team is very skilled and reliable, the quality of the work performed is top-notch, and the firm provides a full spectrum of services.’
‘Roberto Bonsignore is a very experienced lawyer, with deep knowledge of M&A and the relevant players.’
‘Roberto Bonsignore is always proactive and positive, and with a strong attitude towards problem-solving and deal-making. At the same time, he always keeps the quality of the work performed at the highest level.’
‘David Singer always advises on very large and sophisticated deals in a great way.’
Key clients
F2i
Ardian
A2A
Allianz Capital Partners
Peninsula Capital Partners
Vivendi
Lactalis
Worldline
Manitou
Edison
IFM Investors
Snam
APG Asset Management
Asterion Industrial Partners
TSG Consumer
Retelit
Apollo Management Capital
Warburg Pincus
Temasek
Goldman Sachs Infrastructure Partners
Work highlights
- Advised F2i on the acquisition with KKR, the Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance, ADIA and CPPIB, of the fixed network of TIM – Telecom Italia.
- Advised F2i and Ardian on the contemplated sale to Italgas of gas distribution group 2i Rete Gas.
- Advised A2A in relation to the acquisition of Enel’s electricity distribution assets in certain areas of Milan and the province of Brescia.
Italy > Dispute resolution Tier 2
Regarded as being ‘outstanding in understanding the client’s needs and in negotiating with counterparts’, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP supports clients with major national and multi-jurisdictional disputes. The firm advises clients in telecoms, energy, construction and TMT matters. Practice co-heads Carlo Santoro and Giuseppe Scassellati-Sforzolini are experts in antitrust and white-collar crimes, respectively. Roberto Argeri advises on finance and consumer protection litigation, and Francesca Gesualdi is well-versed in appellate cases before Italian courts. After research concluded, Ferdinando Emanuele left the firm.Practice head(s):
Carlo Santoro; Giuseppe Scassellati-Sforzolini
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Cleary lawyers always go the extra mile to combine legal advice with a business perspective.’
‘Roberto Argeri is an amazing lawyer, both from a professional and a personal standpoint.’
‘The dispute resolution practice at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton stands out for its deep expertise, commitment to innovative solutions, and a collaborative approach that consistently delivers exceptional results for clients.’
‘The individuals I work with are exceptional for their unwavering dedication, deep expertise, and client-first approach. What truly sets them apart from competitors is their ability to blend technical precision with innovative thinking.’
‘They are very competent and also find practical solutions for the client.’
‘The law firm is outstanding in understanding the client’s needs and in negotiating with counterparts; it is also very good in litigation.’
‘Francesca Gesualdi is a very good lawyer and an excellent litigator.’
‘Excellent technical expertise, including in complex international matters.’
Key clients
A2A
IVECO
Dexia Crediop and Intesa SanPaolo
ArcelorMittal
Acciaierie d’Italia Holding
A.S. Roma
Vivendi
Cedacri
SKY Italia
Work highlights
- Represented a client in a case before the Court of Appeal of Milan where it rejected an appeal brought by a long-standing contractor of a multinational energy company, fully upholding the counterclaims of the client.
- Successfully represented MSD Italia before the Court of Barcellona Pozzo Di Gotto, which rejected in full the claims for damages brought by a patient who allegedly suffered harm and damages arising from the taking of a drug marketed by MSD.
- Successfully represented Acciaierie d’Italia in multiple proceedings.
Italy > Industry focus: Manufacturing Tier 2
Italy > Private equity Tier 2
Experienced in high-end, domestic and cross-border matters, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton‘s Italian practice acts for major private equity clients on a range of investments and divestitures, including buyouts, consortium deals, co-investments and minority investments. The team is co-led from Milan by Roberto Bonsignore, a highly-rated specialist in public and private M&A, as well as restructuring; and ‘excellent lawyer’ David Singer, an expert in domestic and cross-border M&A, private equity investments, and venture capital deals. Other names to note are Matteo Montanaro, Laura Prosperetti, Gerolamo Da Passano and Gianluca Russo.Practice head(s):
Roberto Bonsignore; David Singer
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘David Singer is an excellent lawyer, and always available when needed by the client.’
‘In addition to David Singer’s legal skills, he provides pragmatic advice, always taking into account commercial considerations.’
Key clients
F2i
Ardian
Allianz Capital Partners
Peninsula Capital Partners
IFM Investors
APG Asset Management
Asterion Industrial Partners
TSG Consumer
Apollo Management Capital
Global Infrastructure Partners
F2i
Ardian
Allianz Capital Partners
Peninsula Capital Partners
Warburg Pincus
Temasek
Goldman Sachs Infrastructure Partners
Blue Pool Capital
Oaktree
QuattroR SGR
Bain Capital Credit
Blackstone
Brookfield Investment Partners
Cerberus
DIF
EDF Invest
JC Flowers
Intermediate Capital Group
KKR
Onex
Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan
Silk Road Fund
Sixth Street
TPG
Work highlights
- Advised F2i on the acquisition (alongside KKR, the Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance, ADIA and CPPIB) of the fixed network of TIM – Telecom Italia.
- Advised F2i and Ardian on the contemplated sale to Italgas of gas distribution group 2i Rete Gas.
- Advised Global Infrastructure Partners on its reinvestment in high-speed train operator Italo – Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori.
Italy > Compliance Tier 3
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton's Italian offices assist Italian and foreign companies with a range of compliance matters, including group governance restructuring to ensure all applicable laws are observed. Along with internal investigations, Andrea Mantovani's compliance practice covers personal data protection, privacy, cybersecurity, and the use of AI in contractual, pre-litigation and litigation contexts. Laura Prosperetti advises on the compliance side to the implementation of EU financial regulatory reforms.Practice head(s):
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Giuseppe Scassellati-Sforzolini; Roberto Bonsignore; Pietro Fioruzzi; Matteo Beretta; Laura Prosperetti; Alice Setari; Andrea Mantovani; Bernardo Massella Ducci Teri; Giulia Checcacci
Other key lawyers:
Andrea Mantovani; Laura Prosperetti; Alice Setari; ; Bernardo Massella Ducci Teri
Testimonials
‘The Cleary team offers compliance support on all the topics that normally fall within the scope of compliance, including whenever technology is involved.’
‘The team stands out for its professionalism, efficiency and exceptional technical expertise.’
‘Their deep knowledge of the regulatory environment, coupled with their problem-solving acumen, make them invaluable assets.’
‘They have demonstrated extreme dedication, consistently going above and beyond to deliver strategic and feasible solutions, even in the most challenging circumstances.’
‘Andrea Mantovani always provides extraordinarily good support, explaining complex topics in a straightforward way.’
‘Andrea Mantovani is reliable, approachable and very competent.’
‘Laura Prosperetti and Bernardo Massella Ducci Teri excel at offering tailored legal solutions that address the specific needs of each client.’
‘Laura Prosperetti and Bernardo Massella Ducci Teri’s ability to navigate the intricacies of rapidly-evolving sectors ensures that clients receive not only compliant, but also innovative and practical advice.’
Key clients
SNAM
ENI
Special Olympics
Auditel
CBI
Work highlights
- Advising SNAM on compliance matters (including data protection and privacy).
- Advising Eni on compliance matters.
- Assisting Special Olympics Italia with data protection compliance matters.
Italy > Tax Tier 3
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton handles a range of domestic and cross-border tax issues, including public and private M&A deals, hybrid financing and investment structures, debt and pre-IPO tax restructurings, and derivatives and financial instruments. It also covers employee benefit plans, executive compensation, tax controversies and estate tax and planning. Vania Petrella is ‘an exceptional tax partner’, and Gianluca Russo and Paola Albano are experienced corporate tax lawyers.Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Each individual of the team understands clients’ needs exactly, giving tailor-made answers.’
‘The team is extremely proactive and efficient in the practice area in which it operates.’
‘The team is more transparent than other law firms, which is important to foreigners.’
‘Vania Petrella is an exceptional tax partner, combining top technical ability, commercial awareness and a very personable approach.’
‘Vania Petrella is always willing to lend a sympathetic ear to clients’ concerns, taking the initiative to channel her expertise to meeting clients’ requirements, and getting what needs to be done on time.’
‘Vania Petrella – a commitment to being a part of the client’s team. One of the best tax advisers in the market.’
‘Gianluca Russo is a superb tax lawyer – excellent technically but also pragmatic and commercially aware.’
‘Gianluca Russo is a great asset for understanding the tax implications of business transfer deals.’
Key clients
Solvay
ArcelorMittal
Global Infrastructure Partners
Silicon Box
Allianz Capital Partners
F2i
Asterion Industrial Partners
Retelit Group
Manitou
APG Asset Management
Work highlights
- Advised Solvay on its separation into two independent listed companies (SpecialtyCo and EssentialCo).
- Provides ongoing advice to ArcelorMittal on Italian tax matters, in relation to its investment in Ilva, a large steel plant in Europe.
- Advised Global Infrastructure Partners on the tax and regulatory aspects of the disposal of an equity interest in Italo – Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori to MSC.
Italy > Administrative and public law Tier 4
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton advises a stellar client list, including household names such as Google and TIM, on public concessions, authorisations, permits, and environmental matters. It regularly provides representation before administrative courts. Leveraging his expertise in EU and competition law, practice head Matteo Beretta spearheads the firm’s administrative law work. Giuseppe Scassellati-Sforzolini‘s established public law practice sees him advise clients on both a national and international basis. Fausto Caronna is a go-to for representation in administrative proceedings in courts of all levels, along with Marco Zotta. Marco D’Ostuni left the firm in July 2024.Practice head(s):
Mario Siragusa; Matteo Beretta
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘They have a deep expertise across the market and an excellent know-how on administrative and public law practice.’
‘Mario Siragusa has exceptional expertise, experience and skills – excellent professional – extremely focused on client’s requirements.’
‘Marco Zotta has a close and tight team, with an in-depth knowledge of the pharma market legal environment, with a full commitment and availability vis-à -vis the client. The team is ready to cooperate with the in-house team in order to ensure a fast and efficient resolution of the issues presented’
‘Marco Zotta is an invaluable lawyer, for his strong ability to understand and capture any opportunity and to support with practical solutions. It is impressive his knowledge of the legal environment and the pharma market. He is able to draft clear legal opinions and strong judicial complaints, simplifying complex topics by transforming them into incisive advantages.’
‘Perfect mix of skills, ability to bring in the client with his specific skills and draw useful themes, ability to open joint reflection, care and attention to the client.’
‘Each and all firm’s team members we work with are very focused on relevant legal matters and maintain deep interactions with the client. Availability, great legal knowledge and reliability of each team member add value to the legal support they provide.’
‘Giuseppe is an absolute master in this area – he knows everything and everyone and delivers guidance calmly and effectively. We could not have succeeded in our transaction without him. His understanding of the Italian system paired with a solution-oriented attitude is unmatched.’
‘Fausto Caronna is our point of reference for administrative and public law, EU and competition law and consumer law. Fausto Caronna has many strong points; you can’t do better than Fausto Caronna. He knows the law better than regulators, he knows the markets and the products, and, in our opinion, he is the most persuasive and concrete lawyer in Italy.’
Key clients
American Express
ArcelorMittal SA / ArcelorMittal Italy Holding S.r.l.
Baxter
Compass Banca S.p.A.
CONOU
Dexia Crediop
ENI
Microtecnica S.r.l.
Samsung
Smurfit Kappa Italia
Solvay
TIM S.p.A.
Unieuro
UnipolSai
Unipoltech S.p.A.
Work highlights
- Representing TIM in an application of the state liability for judicial breaches of EU Law, in which the Court of Appeal of Rome ruled against the Italian state, finding it liable to restore damages of approximately €1bn in total to TIM for the violation of EU Law committed by its Council of State in rejecting an appeal by TIM.
- Representing Google in the appeal before the Council of State against a TAR Lazio’s judgment rejecting the application for annulment of the decision of 27 April 2020 by which the Italian Competition Authority (ICA) imposed a fine of €102,084,433.91 on Google for having allegedly refused, without objective justification, to supply ENEL X’s JuicePass service with access to Google’s smartphone projection app.
- Representing long-term client TIM S.p.A in numerous matters and administrative proceedings.
Italy > Capital markets: Equity Tier 4
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton‘s Pietro Fioruzzi advises international and Italian corporate clients and investment banks on IPOs and other capital markets transactions. Nicole Puppieni ‘consistently delivers outstanding results’; and Rosa Parmose is particularly focused on matters involving US securities laws.Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The ECM practice at Cleary is distinguished by an unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.’
‘Prospective clients would be pleased to know that the team is composed of highly-skilled professionals, who bring a wealth of experience and a diverse range of expertise to the table.’
‘The practice’s key strengths lie in its collaborative approach and a deep understanding of clients’ needs.’
‘Cleary’s ECM practice prides itself on personalised service and the ability to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the industry.’
‘Cleary’s ECM practice is dedicated to providing exceptional service through innovation, expertise, and a client-focused approach. The individuals at Cleary are distinguished by their exceptional expertise, dedication, and collaborative spirit.’
‘What sets them apart from competitors is their unwavering commitment to client success and their ability to deliver innovative solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs.’
‘The team comprises professionals with deep knowledge and extensive experience in their respective fields, ensuring top-notch service and advice. The commitment to going above and beyond for clients is evident in their meticulous attention to detail and proactive approach.’
‘A specific standout is Nicole Puppieni, who is renowned for her strategic insights and exceptional client service, as well as analytical skills and innovative thinking – consistently delivers outstanding results.’
Key clients
Intesa Sanpaolo
Alantra
The independent directors of Alkemy
Italian Design Brands
Natuzzi
Cassiopea
Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan
UniCredit
Falck Renewables
Asterion Industrial Partners
Ermenegildo Zegna
Work highlights
- Advised Intesa Sanpaolo and Alantra Capital Markets Sociedad de Valores (Italian Branch) on the offering and listing on Euronext Growth Milan of the ordinary shares of Next Geosolutions Europe.
- Advised the independent directors of Alkemy on a tender offer launched by Retex.
- Advising Natuzzi on a number of capital markets matters, including compliance with various NYSE-listed companies obligations..
Italy > Industry focus: Energy Tier 4
With capabilities in energy financing and regulatory matters, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP is knowledgeable of renewable energy. Roberto Bonsignore is versed in natural resources, Matteo Beretta is experienced in M&A, and Mario Siragusa is skilled at antitrust in the energy sector.Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘They have a good understanding of the issues of the case.’
Key clients
A2A
Eni S.p.A.
IREN
SNAM
Saipem
International Power Consolidated Holdings Limited (Engie Group)
TAP – Trans Adriatic Pipeline
Edison
Work highlights
- Advised A2A on a sale and purchase agreement with e-distribuzione, an Enel Group company active in the electricity distribution sector.
- Advised F2i and Ardian on its potential sale to Italgas.
- Advised Edison on its sale to Snam.
Italy > Industry focus: TMT Tier 4
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton provides a multidisciplinary service supporting tech and telecoms companies from across the globe with their operations in Italy. The firm specialises in competition issues, both contentious and non-contentious. It is also well-versed in M&A transactions and arbitrations. Overseen by Matteo Beretta in Milan, the Rome-based Mario Siragusa advises clients on competition matters and investigations at the Italian and EU levels. Gianluca Faella, who also works in Rome, is highly experienced in the telecoms and media industries. In July 2024, Marco D’Ostuni exited the firm.Practice head(s):
Matteo Beretta
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The in-depth competence, the kind availability and the smart regulatory advice about my industry have always been a constant. For a foreign company doing business in Italy, it is reassuring to be able to count on the Italian Cleary team, its knowledge and its strategic insights on the regulatory environment.’
‘What makes Gianluca Faella stand out is his clarity, availability, responsiveness and kindness. He makes you feel cared for, not just a client.’
Key clients
Asterion Industrial Partners
FiberCop
Infinite Electronics
KKR
Philips S.p.A.
SKY Italia
TIM S.p.A.
Samsung
F2i
Retelit
Dailymotion
Work highlights
- Represented TIM in a case involving the provision of value-added services delivered through non-geographic numbers.
- Counselling F2i in the acquisition, with KKR, the Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance, ADIA and CPPIB, of the fixed network of TIM – Telecom Italia.
- Counselling Telecom Italia Finance S.A. and Telecom Italia S.p.A. in an ICC arbitration in Paris brought by various parties in the Opportunity group of companies.
Italy > Restructuring and insolvency Tier 4
Italy > Banking and finance: Borrower side Tier 5
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton's Italian team is routinely mandated to advise on English and New York law–governed financings. Based in the firm’s Milan office, Alessandro Gennarino focuses on international financing, including leveraged finance transactions and debt restructuring. Former practice head Carlo De Vito Piscicelli left the firm in September 2024.Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Asterion Industrial Partners
Retelit
Mohegan
ArcelorMittal
LivaNova
Unicredit
Sogefi
F2i
Oaktree
Work highlights
- Advised LivaNova on the establishment of a five-year $250m senior secured revolving facility.
- Assisted Asterion Industrial Partners and Retelit Group with obtaining financing for a total amount of €340m.
- Advise Asterion Industrial Partners on the financing aspects of its €800m-plus acquisition of a 49% stake (currently held by Ardian and Crédit Agricole Assurances) in 2iAeroporti.
Italy > Banking and finance: Bank regulatory
United States > Media, technology and telecoms > Cyber law (including data privacy and data protection) Tier 3
Characterised by a combination of ‘intellectual rigor‘ and ‘deep caring‘, the cybersecurity and privacy team at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton handles a range of matters including incident response, data breach litigation, enforcement and compliance. Team head Daniel Ilan is praised by clients as ‘fully up to speed on new developments’, bringing his expertise particularly to issues arising in transactional contexts. Cyber-related compliance and anti-corruption matters are handled by Jonathan Kolodner, who is noted for his experience as a government official. Rahul Mukhi is also a go-to in this area, with experience regarding complex ransomware attacks. Marcela Robledo advises at the intersection of data privacy and intellectual property issues, often in significant technology transactions. All named team members are based in New York.Practice head(s):
Daniel Ilan
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Daniel Ilan has deep knowledge of all aspects of IP law and makes a point of being in the mix and fully up to speed on new developments, including the challenges, uncertainties and puzzles created by technological evolution and displacement. The team he brings to the table is hard working and precise.’
‘What makes Cleary lawyers in general, and Daniel Ilan in particular, is the intellectual rigor and the deep caring they bring to the work – they don’t leave a stone unturned.’
Key clients
American Express
Fimalac
FullBeauty Brands
Giorgio Armani Corporation
Goldman Sachs
Lowe’s Companies, Inc.
NFL Players Association Trust
Olympus Technologies Inc.
Tempur Sealy International, Inc.
T-Mobile
Thales
Work highlights
- Representing Olympus Technologies Inc in all privacy and data security issues associated with the technology and design of its innovative generative AI offerings.
- Represented Tempur Sealy in its acquisition of Mattress Firm, the nation’s largest mattress specialty retailer, in a cash and stock transaction valued at approximately US$4billion.
- Representing T-Mobile in its pending up to US$1.35 billion acquisition of Mint Mobile (as part of Ka’ena and its subsidiaries and brands).
Comparative Guides
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Italy: Cartels
Published: June 2024
Authors: Alice Setari
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Cartels laws and regulations applicable in Italy.
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Italy: Merger Control
Published: October 2024
Authors: Matteo BerettaAlice Setari
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Merger Control laws and regulations applicable in Italy.