Banking & Finance

Significant finance practice sought out by high-calibre corporates, financial institutions and private equity sponsors in the leveraged and investment-grade markets. Well positioned to advise on the full range of financial instruments, from European covenant-lite structures to term loan B facilities. Additionally noted for its ability to advise lenders in EMEA on high-value transactions as well as its expertise assisting US-based clients. Enjoys a strong reputation for its expertise in the healthcare, technology, pharmaceutical and retail sectors. Long-established experts in the fund finance space.

One client says: "I was extremely impressed at the depth of quality and expertise that the firm has. It is genuinely full-service and has the breadth and scope to staff demanding projects as required. It means you have complete confidence in their team. The work ethic of the team and ability to maintain good humour during difficult times make it enjoyable to work with them."

An interviewee notes: "The way they forecast situations was the main strength; they really knew what would happen next due to market knowledge – they have a lot of experience. Besides the fact they work super quickly and to a high quality, they were always available and had the ability to jump from one area to another."

"Clifford Chance are committed to a deal, regardless of the size of the deal, and they always work to the highest standard, deliver on time and are creative," comments one client.

"I rate the firm highly," reports an interviewee, who praises its "quality advice, responsiveness and breadth of network across multiple locations."

Acted for Jupiter Fund Management on its Class 1 acquisition of asset management firm Merian Global Investors.

Advised the lenders in relation to the leveraged financing for the £6.8 billion acquisition of Asda.

Advised Macquarie European Infrastructure Fund in connection with the financing aspects of its acquisition bid for a 50% stake in Open Fiber from Enel for EUR2.65 billion.

Andrew Husdan advises clients on both leveraged and fund finance transactions. He acts for both sponsors and lenders in domestic and overseas jurisdictions.
"Andrew is commercial, pragmatic and smart as anything." "He is phenomenally clever and very good."

Charles Cochrane acts for both borrower and lender-side clients on complex domestic and cross-border financings. His work includes everything from M&A financing to leveraged and debt restructuring matters.
"Charles is excellent technically and pleasant to deal with." "He is hard-working, diligent and creative."

David Robson is noted for his experience advising lenders across the financing space. He is particularly adept at handling leveraged and M&A financings.
"He is great - he knows his stuff and wants to get the deal done."

Emma Folds has a respected corporate lending and debt restructuring practice. She is highlighted for her representation of banks and alternative capital providers.
"Emma Folds is a hugely experienced lawyer with a very deep understanding of the direct lending market, which enables her to give strong commercial advice about the appropriate position to take on key points." "Emma is extremely sharp and in complete command of all of the detail and commercial considerations of complex legal issues."

Jim MacHale is well regarded for his expert handling of leveraged finance and corporate loan matters. His practice includes both domestic and cross-border mandates.
"Jim MacHale's experience is incredible; he's great to have in your corner." "Jim is a very client-focused lawyer."

London regional managing partner Michael Bates is recognised as one of the foremost experts in infrastructure financing matters. He also comes highly recommended for his expertise when acting for corporate borrowers.
"Michael Bates is one of the best lawyers in the market." "The gravitas, experience, knowledge and calmness of thought he brings to a deal is not often matched by other firms." "Michael is always very available, very helpful and well respected by stakeholders."

Nicola Wherity centres her practice on advising lender-side clients on investment-grade and fund finance matters. She is regularly called upon by clients to advise on high-profile and complex matters.
"Nicola Wherity is proactive, very commercially aware and a very skilled lawyer." "She is calm, pragmatic and experienced."

Robert Lee is the global practice area leader for finance at the firm. His broad finance practice spans cross-border M&A, corporate lending and fund finance matters, among others.
"Robert Lee is fantastic. He is extremely good at picking up what we want to do, what the key questions are and then navigating a way through - he is able to focus in on what's important and sort out something that works."

Taner Hassan is noted for his expertise in acting for sponsors, regularly advising private equity clients on leveraged finance matters. He has experience handling cross-border mandates involving Europe and the USA, among other jurisdictions.