Baker McKenzie S.A.S.
Over the past year, Baker McKenzie S.A.S. secured key roles in a string of projects, with a focus on the road, power and airport sectors. Particularly recognised for its record in representing lenders, the group also frequently acts for project sponsors, construction companies, investors and government entities. Project finance specialist Alejandro Mesa is noted for his ‘strong experience and commercial instinct’; he co-heads the department together with recently promoted (July 2023) partner María Montejo, who specialises in public procurement and infrastructure. Former department co-head Carolina Duque left to establish her own firm in January 2023.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Baker McKenzie is very knowledgeable on the latest news and regulatory developments in the energy industry, and is very proactive. This is particularly appreciated, since one can trust the soundness of the advice received.’
‘The team's strongest points are its availability, speed in responses, and its adaptation to changes and unforeseen events that may arise in any large transaction.’
‘A willing and capable team, which is very well organised and interdisciplinary.’
‘Alejandro Mesa is very accessible, he is directly and thoroughly involved in the issues he works on, he has strong experience and commercial instinct which is always a plus. He has always been available for the various issues that arose in the course of negotiations, and has demonstrated management skills.’
‘María Montejo is outstanding. María is very detailed and hard-working. Like Alejandro, she has always been available to address the various questions or difficulties that could arise in complex transaction negotiations. I also highlight the ability of both to work bilingually without problems.’
‘The partners are up to date with market trends and are always willing to innovate and incorporate changes that facilitate transactions. Particularly good knowledge of the real estate and infrastructure market, accompanied by international support when required.’
‘Partners are available at any time, particularly Alejandro Mesa. Good adaptability and openness to different solutions and to trying to move the transaction forward. Always willing to work shoulder-to-shoulder with bankers. Very commercial and looks for solutions not problems.’
Key clients
- Bonus Banca de Inversión
- Grupo ADO
- Graña y Montero
- China United Engineering
- Oak Creek Energy
- Brookfield Infrastructure
- Coremar Compañía de Servicios Portuarios
- Grupo Ethuss
- Autopista Río Magdalena
- Aleatica
- Unión Para la Infraestructura
- Banco Davivienda
- Dalberg Consulting-US
- Termomorichal
- Unión para la Infraestructura (UPLI)
- The Bank of Nova Scotia
- Aeropuertos de Oriente
- Palermo Sociedad Portuaria
Work highlights
- Advised Bonus Banca de Inversión on the structuring of two PPP projects involving the construction, refurbishment, operation and maintenance of national roads in Colombia.
- Advised Unión para la Infraestructura (UPLI) on the negotiation of a $394m credit line and also on the mezzanine facility granted by Global Infrastructure Partners to a port in the northern department of Antioquia.
- Advised Aeropuertos de Oriente (the concessionaire of six important airports in Colombia) on the refinancing of its financial debt.
Lawyers
Leading individuals
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Alejandro Mesa, Ricardo Trejos