Herbert Smith Freehills LLP remains a leading player in high-profile M&A transactions and related issues. The team is highly esteemed in the private and venture capital sectors, which continue to be significant sources of work for the firm. Baden Furphy specialises in public takeovers, privatisations and joint ventures, and Philippa Stone, who is well respected in the M&A market, focuses on public company transactions and corporate reconstructions. Rodd Levy is regularly engaged by boards for major corporate transactions, and Rebecca Maslen-Stannage is adept at managing complex and innovative corporate deals. Damien Hazard is a key name in private equity transactions, while Andrew Rich brings extensive experience in public company mergers and joint ventures. Tony Damian left the firm in January 2024.