Department profile
Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP

Leveraged Finance: Lenders: Big Ticket

Europe Guide 2026 : UK


Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP

Rankings

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Leveraged Finance: Lenders: Big Ticket - UK

Band 3

Band 3


What the Team is Known For

Weil, Gotshal & Manges has a notable leveraged finance practice that is active on major matters for leading private equity firms and traditional lenders, with a growing presence in the direct lending space. It is well-positioned to advise on the full range of financial instruments including US products, securing its position as a sought-after adviser in the LBO market. The team draws on the firm's global full-service platform to provide a seamless service on cross-border and multidisciplinary issues.

Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • Weil Gotshal advised The Kantar Group, a portfolio company of Bain’s, on its USD2.58 billion refinancing.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • They are proactive in negotiations, anticipating road blocks and putting together commercial solutions.

    Leveraged Finance: Lenders: Big Ticket respondentEurope
  • They are also excellent to deal with and manage complex or sensitive client situations with the highest standards.

    Leveraged Finance: Lenders: Big Ticket respondentEurope
  • The Weil banking and finance team are incredibly talented, commercial, pragmatic and creative.

    Leveraged Finance: Lenders: Big Ticket respondentEurope
  • They are very experienced, client-focused and extremely responsive.

    Leveraged Finance: Lenders: Big Ticket respondentEurope

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Band 1Tom Richards
    Band 1Tom Richards

    Tom Richards

    Tom Richards is noted for his expert representation of private equity sponsors, which he advises on the gamut of leveraged finance matters. He is regularly sought after to assist clients on complex multi-jurisdictional transactions.
    • He's one of the most commercial lawyers out there. He fully understands how private equity works and he has a good understanding of where the market is.

      Leveraged Finance: Lenders: Big Ticket respondentEurope
    • He's a first class lawyer.

      Leveraged Finance: Lenders: Big Ticket respondentEurope
    • Tom is up there with the best and I really like working with him. He has incredible commercial sense, a pragmatic and constructive approach, and unbelievable level of service.

      Leveraged Finance: Lenders: Big Ticket respondentEurope
  • Band 3James Crooks
    Band 3James Crooks

    James Crooks

    James Crooks typically acts for sponsors and borrowers on mid-cap financing transactions, with additional experience assisting well-known banks and direct lenders. His wide sector knowledge includes sports, insurance, energy and commodities, and manufacturing. He is also noted for his expertise in structured finance.

    • Thoughtful, professional and a pleasure to work with, we value James's deep expertise and the speed and clarity with which he conveys what matters alongside actionable solutions.

      Leveraged Finance: Lenders: Big Ticket respondentEurope
    • James is highly reliable and I trust him deeply as financing counsel.

      Leveraged Finance: Lenders: Big Ticket respondentEurope
    • I've been extremely impressed by him. He's constructive, highly pragmatic and creative in his advice.

      Leveraged Finance: Lenders: Big Ticket respondentEurope
    • James consistently demonstrated exceptional service, offering tailored, thoughtful advice with a focus on our complex needs.

      Leveraged Finance: Lenders: Big Ticket respondentEurope
  • Up and ComingAlex Eagle
    Up and ComingAlex Eagle

    Alex Eagle

    Alex Eagle is gaining a reputation for the strength of his work on leveraged finance transactions. He works with private equity sponsors on everything from acquisition financings through to refinancings.

    • He's proving to be a rising star. He's incredibly hard-working, reliable, and at the top end for technical work.

      Leveraged Finance: Lenders: Big Ticket respondentEurope
    • Alex is strong on all levels and understands the big picture of a deal very well.

      Leveraged Finance: Lenders: Big Ticket respondentEurope
  • Up and ComingPatrick Brendon
    Up and ComingPatrick Brendon

    Patrick Brendon

    Patrick Brendon is frequently called upon by private equity sponsors to advise on leveraged finance transactions. He also works with portfolio companies and regularly leads on cross-border acquisitions.

    • Patrick is an excellent lawyer; he's talented and commercial.

      Leveraged Finance: Lenders: Big Ticket respondentEurope
    • Patrick is absolutely great. What sets him apart is that he's the most responsive person I've ever met. He is also incredibly commercial, knowledgeable and cuts to the heart of issues.

      Leveraged Finance: Lenders: Big Ticket respondentEurope

Ranked Individuals at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP (4)

UK

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