Charles Russell Speechlys LLP‘s London office has distinct teams focusing on key regions for emerging markets work, and is particularly strong in private capital transactions. Clients note that ’the team’s adeptness at managing cross-border transactions and resolving intricate legal issues in emerging markets is truly commendable‘. Adrian Mayer leads the Africa group, Hamish Perry the Caribbean desk, Robert Reymond the Latin America team, with Richard Kiddell stepping in to lead on matters involving India since the departure of Rupa Lakha in early 2024. Mayer led advice to an investor on a strategic deal with Nigeria’s leading provider of digital infrastructure to help it reduce its carbon footprint.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Charles Russell Speechlys LLP has proven to be a great partner in navigating the complexities of emerging markets. Their deep understanding of the legal landscape and nuanced approach to international business matters have been instrumental in our success.'

  • 'They consistently demonstrate a thorough grasp of the cultural, regulatory, and commercial dynamics unique to each jurisdiction, ensuring that our interests are well-protected while capitalising on emerging opportunities.’
  • ‘The partners and associates I have worked with always bring a wealth of experience and a pragmatic approach to every engagement. Their ability to distil complex legal issues into actionable insights and provide practical solutions tailored to each client's unique circumstances is truly remarkable.’

  • ‘Charles Russell Speechlys LLP delivers the legal expertise we need as well as the customer service we want. They understand our priorities and expectations and set their strategies accordingly. They provide regular progress updates and frequent communications to ensure that we stay abreast of our matters.’

  • ‘Hamish Perry is extremely knowledgeable and has a passion for his work, which is evident in his performance. What impresses us the most is his ability to communicate effectively and attentively listen to our concerns. He's an 'outside-the-box' thinker and can tailor his creativity to suit every situation.’

  • ‘Charles Russell Speechlys LLP has a very strong team focused on Latin America, which ensures that the service is of the highest quality, agile, and very customer-oriented. Robert Reymond is a key partner in this role. Also Nicola Saccardo is a go to regarding Italy legal issues.’

  • ‘Robert Reymond is very kind, quick, dedicated, and highly knowledgeable in the private clients area, making it very pleasant to work alongside him. Clients are always very satisfied with the results delivered by Robert and his team.’

  • ‘A highly reliable and insightful advisor, Adrian Mayer's expertise in emerging markets and private equity structures is both deep and broad. Adrian has an exceptional ability to blend his wealth of emerging market experience with sound business acumen, which, in my view, distinguishes him.’

Key clients

  • Development Partners International
  • Zenith Energy Group
  • Verod Capital Management
  • Zenith Overseas Assets Ltd
  • Compagnie du Désert Ltd
  • African Development Bank
  • AgDevCo Limited
  • Actis LLP
  • Ascent Capital (Africa)
  • Daystar Power (Africa)
  • Metier Capital (Africa)
  • M-Kopa Solar (Africa)

Work highlights

  • Advised joint clients Development Partners International and Verod Capital Management on their strategic investment into Pan African Towers, Nigeria’s leading provider of digital infrastructure.
  • Advised longstanding client AgDevCo on its $9m investment into East Africa Magical Farms, a producer of premium carnations operating out of Ethiopia and Kenya.
  • Assisted Vitro (the leading glass producer in North America) in complex re-financing operations. Vitro, together with several entities within the group, entered into a facility loan agreements between Vitro as borrower, BBVA Bank and the Bank of Nova Scotia as lenders for a total aggregate amount up to USD 490,000,000.

Lawyers

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Adrian Mayer, Hamish Perry, Richard Kiddell, Robert Reymond

Other key lawyers

Nicola Saccardo