The team at Mayer Brown is well-placed to assist lenders, sponsors and governments with the financing, development and management of international projects. The group exhibits broad expertise in the oil-and-gas, natural resources, renewables, and infrastructure sectors. The practice is co-led by Alban Dorin, who is particularly experienced in mining and infrastructure projects in Africa. Alongside Dorin, practice co-head and project finance specialist Olivier Mélédo advises on a range of projects based in both France and Africa. Elise Baha is noted for her deep knowledge of structured finance mandates.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Excellent - the team's knowledge of the environment in which the client operates, diligence in processing files and above all availability at all times.’

  • ‘Alban Dorin and Elise Baha: always available and attentive. Knowledge of the field of activity and the environment for the implementation of discussion and negotiation strategies. In-depth knowledge of local laws and regulations (finance and mining) to better advise English-speaking customers.’

  • ‘This team demonstrated all-round capabilities and knowledge of investment in African countries. They demonstrated expertise in the written law and conveyed advice promptly, clearly and concisely. It is the level of service I would expect from a top tier firm.’

  • ‘Alban Dorin stood out for providing clear, comprehensive and commercial advice on an African commodities investment. His team was also very capable.'

Key clients

  • Africa Finance Corporation
  • Africa Legal Support Facility
  • Caterpillar Financial Services
  • Coris Bank International
  • En/Power
  • Générale du Solaire
  • Karadeniz Holding
  • Millennium Challenge Corporation
  • QatarEnergy
  • Storengy
  • ENGIE
  • The Government of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania
  • The Government of the Republic of Benin
  • The Government of the Republic of Gabon
  • The Government of the Republic of The Gambia
  • The West African Power Pool
  • Total EREN

Work highlights

  • Advised the Government of Gabon on a PPP toll road project (The Transgabonaise) developed by Société Autoroutière du Gabon, an affiliate to French infra fund Meridiam.
  • Advised Africa Finance Corporation on its additional financing and investment in Nouvelle Gabon Mining, a company holding major manganese concessions in Gabon, and related infrastructure issues.
  • Advised an international bidder on a potential acquisition of Carlyle backed Assala Gabon, the holder of several oil & gas properties offshore Gabon.

Lawyers

Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Alban Dorin, Olivier Mélédo

Other key lawyers

Elise Baha