Projects & Energy: Mining & Minerals

Herbert Smith Freehills operates a formidable projects and energy group with eminent expertise in mining and infrastructure mandates. The group applies its profound knowledge to such matters as joint venture projects, acting for sponsors as well as investors. Further esteemed for its work in the power sector, notably advising on high-profile renewable energy projects, the team's expertise extends to knowledge of upstream and midstream oil and gas developments. The firm harnesses the Africa expertise in its Paris office to provide a distinguished francophone offering which is enhanced through its presence on the ground via its office in Johannesburg.

"They really know their stuff for Africa oil and gas. When there are complicated local points that come up, they help guide us through those. The team are responsive and very knowledgeable of both the black-letter law and the practice itself."

"They are good at cutting through very complex issues and giving us very practical and concise advice."

"The partner we work with has an excellent feel for both the legal and commercial aspects of negotiations. The team finds solutions that work and makes sure they are in everyone's best interest."

"Herbert Smith Freehills have good expertise in drafting and negotiating power purchase agreements."

Herbert Smith Freehills advised Hainan Mining regarding a more than USD117 million investment in the Bougouni Lithium project located in Mali.

Paris-based Bertrand Montembault has significant experience advising on projects throughout francophone Africa. He is particularly highlighted for the depth of his knowledge in the mining sector, with further experience in oil and gas.

Martin Kavanagh operates out of London, advising on the development and financing of projects in the energy sector. He is often called upon to act on lender-side mandates in addition to being frequently instructed by organisations operating in the oil and gas space. "He is very good at understanding how to structure a deal so it meets lenders' requirements. He is very calm and level-headed; he handles heated situations very well." "He is a good professional and wonderful to work with."

Rebecca Major is respected for her handling of transactional and development work in the energy sector in Africa. Predominantly recognised for her upstream oil and gas expertise, she also assists clients with acquisitions, dispositions and corporate restructuring in the mining and power spaces. She is based in Paris. "She is super-available and 'on it'. She grasps things quickly and is super-practical. If I need an instant response on something she is there with one. She has an incredible wealth of experience in Africa and helps drive transactions forward."

Brigette Baillie is widely respected for her command of project finance mandates. She assists with mining, energy and infrastructure project development and financing, with further expertise in transactional matters. She works on matters across Africa from the firm's Johannesburg office. "She has a very high level of seniority and masters all topics. Everyone respects her because she radiates knowledge and expertise."

EMEA managing partner and Africa practice co-head Nina Bowyer ably handles upstream oil and gas mandates on behalf of significant international organisations active across northern and western Africa. She provides further counsel on matters relating to mining and natural resources from her base in the firm's Paris office. "She is smart, committed and available. She is also hard-working and comprehends things really quickly - almost immediately she'll have thought of a solution and all the additional things we need to consider."