Greenberg Traurig Santa Maria > Milan, Italy > Firm Profile

Greenberg Traurig Santa Maria
LARGO TOSCANINI 1
20122 MILANO
Italy

Italy > Compliance Tier 2

In April 2023, Greenberg Traurig Santa Maria's compliance and white-collar defence and investigations team was bolstered by the arrival of Bruno Cova and Massimo Ugo Maria Contesso from Studio Legale Delfino e Associati Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP. Cova, who is ‘arguably one of the top compliance lawyers in the country‘, advises the buyers of companies impacted by wrongdoing, assists with internal investigations and corporate governance issues, in addition to representing companies facing criminal actions. Contesso advises on white-collar crime matters. Another key contact, Mariafrancesca De Leo, is experienced in internal investigations.

Practice head(s):

Bruno Cova

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The practice benefits from the wide spectrum of legal areas that Greenberg offers, in particular EU and regulatory law.’

‘Bruno Cova is one of the very few lawyers capable of combining meaningful experiences in top jobs as GC in blue-chip companies and years spent in top-tier international firms as partner. The result of this dual background is a lawyer who is not only technically top-notch, but who also knows how big companies operate.’

‘Bruno Cova is always very clear and intelligent, calm and reassuring, even in the most serious circumstances.’

‘Bruno Cova is arguably one of the top compliance lawyers in the country.’

Key clients

Shell Plc

Work highlights

  • Represented Shell Plc in criminal investigations conducted by the authorities of five separate countries under suspicion of corruption of foreign public officials in Nigeria, the matter in Italy involving compliance with Decree 231 issues.

Italy > EU and competition law Tier 2

Greenberg Traurig Santa Maria houses a specialised team equipped to advise clients from the life sciences, energy, real estate, finance, and technology sectors on the full spectrum of antitrust, competition and European law, including state aid, merger filings, cartel and government investigations. Particularly active is the practice also in the area of EU four freedom, advising on the right of establishment, freedom of movement, and freedom to provide services inside the EU. Practice head Edoardo Gambaro notably concentrates on state aid, merger control, antitrust and complex European law; areas in which Pietro Missanelli is also notably active.

Practice head(s):

Edoardo Gambaro

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The team shows a wide array of expertise, ranging from merger control and pure antitrust to state aid and EU fundamental freedoms.’

‘Edoardo Gambaro is very experienced not only in “classic” antitrust areas such as merger filings or vertical agreements’ advice, but also in more difficult matters, such as state aid, abuse of economic dependence, internal market law or EU procedural law. He is also a skillful litigator.’

‘Most of the firm’s professionals have a solid background in European law. They care about their client’s needs and are able to find the decisive legal argument to solve an issue.’

‘Edoardo Gambaro is always responsive and present in calls and meetings. He has in-depth experience in all matters of European or competition law. Compared to other partners in other law firms, he is able to go in depth in legal analysis, while producing an effective and sharp output.’

‘Pietro Missanelli assisted us on a number of important contractual matters. We appreciate his flexibility, as we can count on him to solve any of our EU and/or antitrust related matters, including those related to innovation and green deals.’

Key clients

Federalberghi

Scuola Elementare Maria Montessori

Nextalia

Dorotheum

Gruppo Iper

Delcomar

Napoleon Abrasives S.p.A. v Deerfoos Co. Ltd.

Work highlights

  • Assisted Federalberghi, the Association of Italian hotels, in several EU and competition law related matters, including two referrals for a preliminary ruling before the EU Court of Justice made by the Italian supreme administrative jurisdiction (Council of State) concerning the applicability to Airbnb of a tax statute on short rents adopted by the Italian State.
  • Assisted Scuola Elementare Maria Montessori before the European Court of Justice (ECJ) in the State aid case relating to the tax exemption on the municipal tax on real property (ICI) granted by Italy to non-commercial bodies (Joined Cases C-622/16 P, C-623/16 P and C-624/16 P).
  • Assisted Progetto Grano S.p.A. – Cereal and Milling in raising specific European law issues (and, in particular, in proposing a referral for preliminary ruling to the Court of Justice) in the proceedings pending before the Court of Cassation between Progetto Grano S.p.A. and the Italian Customs and Monopolies Agencies in relation to the entity of the interests that should be paid on export refunds for agricultural products that have never been disbursed by the competent public administration.

Italy > Real estate and construction Tier 2

Greenberg Traurig Santa Maria offers a comprehensive service to its clients in the real estate sector. It has particular strength in investments, developments, construction projects and long-term lease agreements. The heads of the firm’s real estate practice are Marzio Longo, who is well versed in real estate transactions with particular expertise in the negation and drafting phases, and Federico Barbàra, who is experienced in acquisitions, disposals, developments and portfolio management. Gloria Molteni is noted for her specialisation in town planning and zoning.

Practice head(s):

Marzio Longo; Federico Barbàra

Other key lawyers:

Gloria Molteni; Valentina Bartolini; Flavia Guancioli; Paolo Bolis

Testimonials

‘Marzio Longo is a star.’

‘Federico Barbara is a very commercial lawyer.’

‘The Real Estate and Construction practice at Greenberg Traurig Santa Maria (GTSM) is distinguished by its unparalleled commitment to client success, marked by a blend of legal expertise, industry-specific knowledge, and innovative solutions.’

‘The team is composed of highly skilled professionals who are not only well-versed in the intricacies of real estate and construction law but also possess a deep understanding of the market dynamics and business considerations that are crucial for any transaction.’

‘Federico Barbara is the epitome of a transactional lawyer who combines legal acumen with business sensibility. His expertise in real estate law is invaluable, especially in acquisitions and development projects.’

‘Valentina Bartolini stands out for her meticulous attention to detail and her ability to manage cross-border transactions efficiently. She brings a fresh perspective to the team, making her an asset in complex negotiations.’

‘Flavia Guancioli is an associate whose expertise in real estate law is complemented by her skills in commercial law. Her versatility makes her an invaluable team member.’

Key clients

Davidson Kempner Capital Management

H.I.G.

Garbe Industrial Real Estate Italy

JP Morgan Asset Management

Weerts Logistic Parks

Madison Capital Group

P3 Logistic Parks

Starwood Capital

Henderson Park

Carlyle Real Estate SGR S.p.A.

Deka Immobilien

Exeter Real Estate Group Europe

Tristan Capital Partners

MT – Manifattura Tabacchi S.p.A.

Kervis SGR S.p.A.

BentallGreenOak

Aermont Capital

Bracco Real Estate

Europa Capital

UniCredit

DeA Capital

Work highlights

  • Represented JP Morgan Asset Management in the sale of the real estate property Cortile della Seta in Milan, through the sale of the 100% of the Units of the Sericon AIF.
  • Represented Kervis, in its capacity as management company of the alternative investment fund denominated Innovazione, in relation to the acquisition of an office property located in Milan, Viale dell’Innovazione, from Covivio.
  • Represented Garbe Industrial Real Estate Italy in relation to the acquisition of a greenfield area located in Greater Milan (Silvano Pietra) and in the negotiation of a construction agreement.

Italy > Capital markets: Debt Tier 3

Greenberg Traurig Santa Maria's team regularly advises on high-stakes capital markets matters, particularly securitisations. The department is headed by finance practice leader Corrado Angelli, who brings extensive experience in debt products, including NPL-related securitisations; and Alessio Gerhart Ruvolo, whose workload extends to structured finance. Other key figures include senior associates Davide Bonsi (who handles a broad range of securitisations involving different asset classes) and real estate finance specialist Antonio Enrico Izzi.

Practice head(s):

Corrado Angelelli; Alessio Gerhart Ruvolo

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The team of Studio Santa Maria is characterised by the experience of its professionals, the knowledge shown about various legal issues, and the availability and attention to the client.’

‘The work done is always good and in compliance with the timing of the operation.’

‘A very comprehensive approach, from loan agreements to NPLs and special situations involving capital market aspects.’

A thorough approach displaying industry knowledge of the different products and counterparties.

‘Corrado Angelelli makes himself available to clear up any legal questions received about the transaction.’

‘Corrado Angelelli has extensive knowledge – an outstanding advisor both in traditional financing and more innovative structures/transactions for restructuring and special situations.’

Antonio Enrico Izzi is a highly esteemed professional in the industry, providing a unique mix of knowledge and availability.

Key clients

Rhize Capital

DDM

EQT Exeter

Castello SGR

Investcorp

Garbe Industrial Real Estate Italy

Threestones Capital

SFO Capital Limited

Kervis SGR

AMCO

J-Invest S.p.A

Crif S.p.A.

Creditis Servizi Finanziari S.p.A.

Manifattura Tabacchi

Solution Bank

Work highlights

  • Advised DDM Invest III AG, as investor, in relation to a securitisation programme.
  • Advised Rhize Capital, as arranger, and a special purpose securitisation vehicle, as lender, on a financing to be granted to two Italian closed end real estate funds.
  • Advised J Invest S.p.A. in relation to two securitisation platforms.

Italy > Dispute resolution Tier 3

Greenberg Traurig Santa Maria represents clients before arbitral tribunals and courts in frequently complex and financially significant matters. The ‘very competent’ team is led by Mariafrancesca De Leo, a noted financial litigator, and Alberto Santa Maria, who is regularly instructed by major banks, companies and government entities on EU law, antitrust and M&A matters. Bruno Cova joined the practice in April 2023 from Studio Legale Delfino e Associati Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP; he adds expertise in disputes concerning compliance and restructuring.

Practice head(s):

Mariafrancesca De Leo; Alberto Santa Maria

Other key lawyers:

Bruno Cova; Alfredo Pentimalli; Iacopo Stasi; Bertone Biscaretti

Testimonials

‘Associate Bertone Biscaretti is very valuable for his ability to assist with the client’s needs in mind, not only concerning the individual issue he deals with in a specific moment but also with more general reference to our business and image in general.’

‘Mariafrancesca De Leo is a skilled, passionate lawyer with a business-oriented approach.’

‘The dispute resolution team at Greenberg Traurig Santa Maria is made up of excellent professionals, very competent, reliable and helpful.’

‘Alfredo Pentimalli and Iacopo Stasi represent the excellence of the legal profession in Italy from all perspectives.’

‘Studio Santa Maria’s dispute resolution practice has a multi-perspective and interdisciplinary approach to a wide range of legal matters. The legal team’s strengths include their deep knowledge of the law and the technicalities of dispute resolution, professional skills and a strong focus on clients’ goals.’

‘Mariafrancesca De Leo is an outstanding lawyer specialised in financial services litigation and regulatory enforcement procedures.’

Key clients

ENI

EXPO 2015 Arexpo

DeA Capital Real Estate SGR S.p.A.

Bracco Imaging

Unes Maxi S.p.A.

Hotel Villa d’Este

Paper Moon Garden S.r.l.

PNE

EXERGIA

IWG International Workspace Group

Carlyle Global Credit Investment Management LLC.

Ramphastos Investments Group N.V.

SKS Malta Ltd.

Shell Plc

Work highlights

  • Representing Shell Plc, the global oil & gas super-major, in the criminal investigations conducted by the authorities of five separate countries under suspicion of corruption of foreign public officials in Nigeria for an alleged bribe of US 1.3 billion.
  • Representing ENI in a dispute before the Court of First Instance of Potenza (Region of Basilicata) brought by 80 plaintiffs, involving the largest on-shore oil field in Western Europe.
  • Representing DeA Capital Real Estate, in its capacity as management company of the Real Estate Fund Diamond, in two proceedings before the Court of Rome against Consiglio per la ricerca in agricoltura e l’analisi dell’economia agraria, an Italian public entity, and involving also Prelios SGR S.p.A.

Italy > Banking and finance: Borrower side Tier 4

Acting for borrowers and investment funds, Greenberg Traurig Santa Maria's Milan-based team advises on complex cross-border financings. Heading the finance practice in Italy, Corrado Angelelli's practice covers corporate, leveraged and structured finance, along with restructuring; and Alessio Gerhart Ruvolo's wide-ranging workload includes sustainable and impact finance issues.

Practice head(s):

Corrado Angelelli; Alessio Gerhart Ruvolo

Other key lawyers:

Davide Bonsi; Antonio Enrico Izzi

Testimonials

‘Characterised by the experience of its professionals, the knowledge shown of various legal issues, and the availability and attention to the client.’

‘Corrado Angelelli makes himself available to clear up any legal questions.’

‘The work done is always very good and in compliance with the timing of the operation.’

‘GT law has a hugely professional approach – strong experience in several markets and capable of providing support whenever needed, leveraging on its worldwide teams.’

‘The approach is straightforward and adds value to long-term relationships.’

‘Builds strong relationships with clients – very responsive, always available and timely, and capable of effectively supporting clients’ decision processes.’

‘Very helpful when looking for workable solutions.’

‘Very effective in managing the relationship with counterparts’ legal teams, avoiding the creation of unnecessary tension.’

Key clients

Rhize Capital

DDM

EQT Exeter

Castello SGR S.p.A.

Investcorp

Garbe Industrial Real Estate Italy

Threestones Capital

SFO Capital Limited

Kervis SGR

AMCO

J-Invest S.p.A

Crif S.p.A.

Creditis Servizi Finanziari S.p.A.

Manifattura Tabacchi

Solution Bank

Work highlights

  • Advised Kervis SGR, in its capacity as AIFM of an Italian real estate fund, on the refinancing for the acquisition of a portfolio of mixed-use properties in Milan.
  • Advised EQT Exeter on the refinancing of the acquisition of a portfolio of logistics assets.

Italy > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 4

Greenberg Traurig Santa Maria’s multidisciplinary commercial, corporate and M&A practice covers a range of corporate services, including public and private M&A, private equity transactions, and corporate governance. Co-heading the team, Luigi Santa Maria routinely acts for industrial groups, financial institutions and private equity investors; and Mario Santa Maria has significant experience in cross-border transactions, including M&A and joint venture work. Other key names are Pietro Caliceti and Carlo Scaglioni.

Practice head(s):

Luigi Santa Maria; Mario Santa Maria

Other key lawyers:

Pietro Caliceti; Carlo Scaglioni; Francesca Torricelli; Bruno Cova; Alessandra Boffa; Luigi Iovino; Juljan Puna

Testimonials

‘The team offers competence and preparation, broad-spectrum solutions, and answers that are as complete as possible and not limited to legal aspects alone.’

‘The team has a multi-perspective and interdisciplinary approach that is capable of offering an overall vision. Solid knowledge of its clients, which it utilises in a good way so as to optimise the timing and costs allocated to projects.’

‘The availability of the professionals involved is very high and beyond expectation.’

‘The strength of the team is its ability to provide tailored advice to clients, with great expertise in the financial sector and a cost-conscious approach (exceptional value for the work done).’

‘Mario Santa Maria has the ability to understand problems immediately and find solutions.’

‘Alessandra Boffa deserves specific mention. She is an extremely competent lawyer, who is very reliable and has a proactive, solutions-oriented approach. She moves very quickly when needed, with the ability to think of different solutions for legal and business problems.’

‘Juljan Puna has a serious and responsible approach. He listens to the client carefully, and addresses problems in depth with the right emotional detachment and desire to solve it in the best possible way.’

‘Juljan Puna is characterised by a strong aptitude for clarity in both his spoken and written language. Always pays particular attention to how to communicate with management and interacts professionally.’

Key clients

Stellex Capital Holdings Luxembourg Sarl

Frafin Srl

Sind Srl

Davidson Kempner European Partners

Neva Sgr (Banca Intesa)

Villa D’Este

Fontana Group

SPA Società Prodotti Antibiotici

Klaris SA

Affide S.p.A.

Dorotheum

ICAM S.p.A.

Bracco Group

Andritz Group

Trico Italy S.r.l.

First Brands Corporation

Eni S.p.A.

Work highlights

  • Assisted Affide with the acquisition of the business unit associated with the pawnbroking activities of Banca Carige and Banca del Monte di Lucca.
  • Assisted Neva SGR, the venture capital arm of the Intesa SanPaolo group, with the acquisition (on behalf of the Neva First Fund) of an equity investment in Classiq, an Israeli company with a US subsidiary.
  • Advised an ad hoc group of creditors, comprising Carlyle Global Credit Investment Management, Man GLG and Stellex Capital Holdings Luxembourg on a share deal concerning the ongoing refinancing of the existing indebtedness of Officine Maccaferri.

Italy > Intellectual property Tier 4

Greenberg Traurig Santa Maria’s IP team regularly handles both contentious and non-contentious matters related to copyright issues, licensing, patents and trademarks, with a notable focus on the pharmaceutical, fashion and luxury goods sectors. Luigi Fontanesi leads the department, which includes Camilla Di Fonzo, who is renowned in the field of advertising, marketing and commercial communication. Data protection specialist Bertone Biscaretti di Ruffia is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Luigi Fontanesi

Testimonials

‘What makes this practice unique is the people. The team is very well-prepared and always available to answer any questions. They are also very thorough and passionate about what they do.’

‘Camilla di Fonzo’s support was crucial to the in-depth study related to the case we submitted. She proved to be capable, skilled, and extremely helpful for what is a sensitive case. Highly recommended.’

‘I work mostly with Dr. Luigi Fontanesi and Dr. Camilla di Fonzo. They are a great team. I rely very much on them for any important decision in my business. They are extremely professional and very resourceful. They suggest solutions before the problem even appears. Furthermore, they are very proactive, and it’s very unusual for me to have found a law firm that calls me more often than I called them. I am very lucky and would recommend them always.’

‘With absolute dedication to solving the problems submitted, lawyer Fontanesi has become an integral part of our team and not an external professional!’

‘The team is extremely competent in intellectual property matters, and stands out from other players for its extreme attention in identifying the best way to operate, not by simply applying a theoretical approach but by identifying solutions that maximise effectiveness, transparency and speed of execution.’

‘Greenberg Team stands out for its positive approach and constant availability.’

‘This practice is extremely thorough, thoughtful, and well versed in difficult IP areas. They are responsive and generate a lot of idea to solve unique problems. They are also very considerate and responsive to clients. I find their agility, responsiveness, and expertise second to none.’

‘Camilla Di Fonzo has been stellar. She is incredibly knowledgeable and prompt. Her work is impeccable, and at every impasse presented she had a new and creative research suggestion until she was able to solve all of our issues. Luigi Fontanesi is exceptionally conscientious, considered, and thoughtful in his approach. He helped us work through several sensitive matters where he provided measured and sound advice, offering a range of solutions to each issue.’

Key clients

Gruppo Cimbali

Villa d’Este

Anytime Fitness

Linaire srl

Bracco Foundation

Siirtec Nigi S.p.A.

Biofer S.p.a.

Gabbanelli Accordions & Imports, LLC

CB Digital Company S.r.l.

Italian Friends of the Citizens Foundations

Work highlights

  • Advised Walt Disney Pictures / 20th Century Fox, Moto Pictures, and World of Wonder on productions and shootings taking place in Italy.
  • Advised numerous pharma companies including Biofer, Bracco Group and TFF Pharmaceutical on complex cross-border litigation and transactions involving IP and contractual issues.
  • Advised Meta Platforms, Epic Games and iHeart Media on complex relations and controversies with SIAE concerning music licensing agreements.

Italy > Restructuring and insolvency Tier 4

Greenberg Traurig Santa Maria advises clients on domestic and cross-border bankruptcy, restructuring and insolvency matters. Its client base includes insolvency practitioners, directors, private equity funds, bond trustees and stakeholders in distressed M&A situations. Bruno Cova, after joining the firm from Studio Legale Delfino e Associati Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP in April 2023, co-heads the restructuring and insolvency practice alongside Corrado Angelelli, who is experienced in leveraged and real estate finance matters.

Practice head(s):

Bruno Cova; Corrado Angelelli

Other key lawyers:

Francesco Horvat

Key clients

Carlyle Global Credit Investment Management LLC

Man GLG Limited

Stellex Capital Holdings Luxembourg S.a.r.l.

Davidson Kempner European Partners

Bain Capital

Aquileia Capital Services S.r.l.

Cerberus Capital Management

BCMGlobal

Work highlights

  • Advising Carlyle Global Credit Investment Management, Man GLG and Stellex Capital Holdings Luxembourg on the restructuring of Officine Maccaferri.
  • Advising Davidson Kempner European Partners on the acquisition of the business of Eviva in the context of the restructuring process of the latter.
  • Advising Carlyle Global Credit Investment Management on the possible refinancing of Moby.

Italy > Banking and finance: lender or arranger side Tier 5

Greenberg Traurig Santa Maria's full-service finance practice regularly advises lenders on matters involving multiple jurisdictions. It is particularly active in real estate financings and NPL work. Group head Corrado Angelelli covers corporate, leveraged and structured finance, as well as restructuring. Alessio Gerhart Ruvolo is also a key practice member.

Practice head(s):

Corrado Angelelli; Alessio Gerhart Ruvolo

Other key lawyers:

Davide Bonsi; Antonio Enrico Izzi

Testimonials

‘Good team harmony and collaboration.’

‘Always present and available to manage problems, and able to manage stressful situations.’

‘The team is characterised by the experience of its professionals, the knowledge shown of various legal issues and the availability and attention to the client.’

‘The work done is always good and on time.’

‘Great flexibility and quality versus pricing, and great availability to support clients.’

‘A very comprehensive approach to loan agreements, NPLs and special situations.’

‘Corrado Angelelli: from the very first moment, he makes himself available to clear up any legal questions raised.’

Antonio Enrico Izzi is a well-regarded professional in the industry who provides a unique mix of knowledge and availability.

Key clients

Rhize Capital

DDM

EQT Exeter

Threestones Capital

SFO Capital Limited

Kervis SGR

AMCO

J-Invest

Crif

Creditis Servizi Finanziari

Solution Bank

Work highlights

  • Advised Wingspire Capital LLC and several lenders on the financing to support the GTT Group, further to the closing of the Chapter 11 procedure opened by the American holding company of GTT Group.
  • Advised Rhize Capital on a financing to be granted to two Italian closed-end real estate funds for the acquisition and development of two student housing buildings in Milan.
  • Advised Solution Bank on a mortgage loan financing in favour of certain entities of the Leolandia Group.

Italy > Industry focus: Energy Tier 5

Led by M&A and project finance deals expert Paolo Esposito, Greenberg Traurig Santa Maria’s energy practice handles a wide range of energy matters including M&A, joint ventures, development, financing and construction of electric power generation projects and natural gas infrastructure projects. Clients also seek the department’s advice on regulatory and compliance issues. The team includes Carlo Scaglioni, noted for assisting companies in both domestic and cross-border energy transactions.

Practice head(s):

Paolo Esposito

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Extreme availability. The team has always provided an accurate and prompt support.’

‘Carlo Scaglioni has a speedy critical thinking and can improve solutions that allow to overcome issues with negotiating partners.’

Key clients

Energy Wave

ENI SPA

PNE/EXERGIA

SNAM

Ital Green Energy

Enel Green Power

Work highlights

  • Represented  ENI in a dispute before the Court of First Instance of Potenza (Region of Basilicata) brought by 80 plaintiffs, involving the largest onshore oil field in Western Europe.