The private equity group at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP specialises in the largest and most complex cross-border transactions for premium financial sponsor clients, handling deals of all types including auctions, exits, take-privates, distressed deals and PIPEs. Across both public and private transactions, the practice has demonstrated significant expertise in multiple growth sectors, from advanced manufacturing and pharmaceuticals to media and technology. Splitting his time between Shanghai and Beijing, China practice head Charles Ching is one of the best regarded PE lawyers in the region, who, in addition to representing top PE sponsors, is regularly referred to by major investment banks. In Beijing, counsel Yujing Liu focuses on representing Chinese companies in their outbound investments, while Shanghai-based Kenny Yu is adept regarding competitive and proprietary buyouts, as well as fund formation. Tim Gardner also has a strong reputation in the market.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘With significant and long-term industry experience in the field of life sciences and healthcare, as well as outstanding achievements in domestic and foreign financing, the team is stable and provides continuous legal support to clients.’
‘They have managed to navigate through the crises and remained strong.’
‘Charles Ching has a rare combination of expertise in both US and Chinese PE practices.’
‘Weil is particularly experienced in the private equity market in China, with deep cross-border knowledge and execution capability. Diversity also stands out as a highlight.’
‘Charles Ching stands out as the best partner I worked with who has unmatched knowledge in both Chinese and international private equity and M&A market.'
'Yujing Liu, who works for us on a couple of deals, is a very experienced legal counsel.’
‘Their practice is rather focused on complex M&A deals, particularly where there is a private equity angle. Their lawyers respond very quickly, precisely and commercially, particularly Charles Ching.’
‘In the mainland legal market, I don't truly see many outstanding bilingual commercial/deal lawyers but Kenny Yu and Charles Ching are surely the two individuals that stand out of the crowd. The pair is terrific in that they execute deals at lightening-fast speed, and most importantly, at a quality that is reflective of a tier-one international law firm. Kenny Yu is up and coming and surely will go far in this market.’

Key clients

Advent International
Alibaba Group
BPEA EQT (formerly known as Baring Private Equity Asia)
CBC Group (formerly C-Bridge Capital)
Citigroup Asia
FountainVest Partners
Gores Guggenheim Inc.
Hillhouse Capital
Mr. Rick Yan (Co-founder and CEO of 51job, Inc.)
MBK Partners
PAG
Primavera Capital
TPG Growth

Work highlights

Advised Advent International on its leveraged acquisition of a controlling stake in Shanghai Wagas, a Chinese health-food and bakery chain.
Acting for Advent International on its investment in LBS Group, a pest control operation and hygiene solutions provider in Greater China.
Advising Gores Guggenheim, Inc., a SPAC sponsored by affiliates of The Gores Group and Guggenheim Capital, on its $20bn business combination with Polestar Performance AB.