Visi Money
TLDR:
- Allen & Overy has added a five-strong structured finance team from Milbank in London ahead of its merger with Shearman & Sterling.
- The team is led by partner John Goldfinch, who brings experience in structured finance, securitisation, and derivatives, with a focus on the CLO and related markets.
Allen & Overy has recently made a significant addition to its London office by hiring a team of five structured finance lawyers from US rival Milbank. Led by partner John Goldfinch, who has a strong background in structured finance, securitisation, and derivatives, the team’s expertise lies in the CLO and related markets. Goldfinch’s previous work at Milbank included advising notable clients such as the National Bank of Greece and Spain’s Werfen on significant financing and acquisition deals.
The move comes as A&O reports significant growth in private capital client revenue, with a more than 60% increase globally over the past two years. Goldfinch’s hire is seen as a strategic move to further support this growth and strengthen the firm’s capabilities in working with private capital sponsors in the structured capital markets.
Notably, this addition follows a series of lateral hires across various practice areas, including funds, private equity, and distressed debt, showcasing A&O’s commitment to enhancing its strengths in multiple investment strategies. These strategic hires aim to position A&O strongly in anticipation of its upcoming merger with Shearman & Sterling, which is set to be finalized by May, creating a combined entity known as A&O Shearman.
As A&O continues to strengthen its capabilities and expand its global reach, the addition of the structured finance team from Milbank, led by John Goldfinch, signifies a strategic move towards bolstering its position in the competitive legal landscape, particularly in the private capital client space.
