Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton advises a diverse global client base on executive compensation and employee benefits matters, including complex cross-border mergers, acquisitions, and restructurings. The firm is highly active in high-profile transactions, recently advising GSK on its $1.4bn acquisition of Aiolos Bio and General Mills on its $2.1bn of its US and Canadian yogurt businesses. The team frequently collaborates with corporate, tax, and regulatory specialists to address issues such as incentive structuring, retention planning, and ERISA compliance. With a proven track record of guiding clients through sensitive compensation negotiations, the firm continues to support major players across industries, including financial services, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods. Practice leaders Michael Albano  and Julia Petty  bring deep expertise in complex deal structuring and regulatory compliance, with Albano particularly recognized for his work in private equity compensation.Petty, based in New York, regularly advises on high-stakes corporate transactions and shareholder activism matters.

Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP is a market leader in executive compensation and employee benefits, particularly in high-stakes M&A and private equity transactions. The New York-based team advises on incentive structuring, tax implications, and SEC and ERISA compliance. Recent highlights include advising Paramount’s special committee on its pending $28bn merger with Skydance Media and EchoStar on its $26bn combination with DISH Network. The practice also excels in cross-border deals, such as WestRock’s $20bn merger with Smurfit Kappa, which required navigating jurisdictional complexities. Headed by Eric Hilfers , the firm remains a key adviser on management retention strategies and shareholder approvals, particularly in private equity-backed transactions. Key figures include Jonathan Katz  focusing on delivering key advice on employee agreements and incentive programs,  Amanda Hines Gold specializes in negotiating severance packages, SEC filings, and the administration of equity incentive plans. Meanwhile Matthew Bobby, who is experienced in structuring compensation packages for high-value deals with strong emphasis on executive employment contracts and SEC disclosure intricacies.

Debevoise & Plimpton LLP is a go-to advisor for private equity firms, financial institutions, and Fortune 500 companies navigating complex compensation matters in M&A, IPOs, and fund formations. The firm’s deep integration with its corporate, tax, and regulatory teams ensures seamless advice on governance, tax compliance, and ERISA-related issues. The team regularly counsels major private equity sponsors, including Blackstone, The Carlyle Group, and Clayton, Dubilier & Rice, on structuring incentive programs, deferred compensation, and golden parachute arrangements. Recently, the firm advised Johnson & Johnson on compensation aspects of its spinoff of Kenvue, and Warner Bros. Discovery on executive compensation matters post-merger. Headed by Jonathan Lewis , the firm also plays a key role in developing ESG-aligned compensation structures, ensuring compliance with SEC disclosure requirements, and defending executives in high-stakes disputes. New York-based Franklin Mitchell and Simone Hicks are standouts, advising on cross-border transactions and regulatory mandates.

Kirkland & Ellis LLP is widely recognized for its expertise in executive compensation and employee benefits, advising Fortune 500 companies, private equity sponsors, and multinational corporations on incentive plans, equity-based compensation, and ERISA compliance in the context of M&A, IPOs, and leveraged buyouts. Highly skilled in navigating regulatory matters involving the Department of Labor and IRS the firm leverages deep transactional expertise and robust regulatory practice, the firm remains a dominant force in high-value corporate transactions, offering comprehensive solutions to compensation committees and clients facing complex compliance challenges. The firm routinely addresses Section 280G golden parachute issues, SEC disclosure requirements, and carried interest structures, working closely with its top-tier private equity and tax teams to ensure seamless execution. With a strong focus on post-merger benefits integration, deferred compensation, and severance agreements, the team is led by New York-based Scott Price , along with Chicago-based Michael Falk and Alexandra Mihalas .

Latham & Watkins LLP continues to be a dominant force in executive compensation and employee benefits, regularly advising private equity firms, multinational corporations, and financial institutions on high-stakes transactions. The firm is a go-to advisor for structuring management incentive programs, carried interest arrangements, and equity compensation plans across M&A, IPOs, and leveraged buyouts. The team has been particularly active in headline-grabbing deals, including advising Skydance Media on its $28bn merger with Paramount Global. With a deep bench of experienced practitioners across New York, Silicon Valley, Washington DC, and Los Angeles, the firm offers seamless, business-focused counsel on executive pay structuring and strategic workforce planning. Key partners Bradd Williamson, David Della Rocca, Larry Seymour , Austin Ozawa  and James Metz are noted for their expertise across the firm's offering, with a strong record in high-value transactions.

Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP advises a diverse client base on executive compensation and employee benefits matters, regularly assisting with domestic and cross-border transactions as well as high-profile restructurings. The firm recently advised Chevron on its $60bn stock acquisition of Hess Corporation and WestRock on its $20bn merger with Smurfit Kappa, providing strategic counsel on retention plans, equity structuring, and benefit adjustments. Additionally, the team assisted Carrier Global in its $3bn sale of its fire business and $775m sale of its refrigeration division, developing retention strategies for key employees.  The practice is renowned for its expertise in executive compensation and employee benefits, regularly advising on complex, high-value transactions and corporate restructurings. Further demonstrating its strength in restructuring, the team assisted Carrier Global with a series of divestitures, including the $3bn sale of its fire business. The group is co-chaired by Jean McLoughlin  and Lawrence Witdorchic , with Andrea Wahlquist Brown and  Jarrett Hoffman  also key figures. Their expertise spans ERISA compliance, incentive structures, and benefits planning in high-stakes corporate transactions and reorganizations across key industries.

Ropes & Gray LLP continues to lead in executive compensation and employee benefits, advising on high-profile M&A, private equity transactions, IPOs, and restructurings. The team is a trusted advisor to major private equity sponsors, asset managers, and Fortune 500 companies, providing seamless integration with the firm’s tax, corporate, and finance practices. The firm recently advised National Financial Partners on compensation and benefits aspects of its $13.4bn sale to Aon, showcasing its expertise in cross-border executive compensation and benefits structures. Additionally, the team advised ImmunoGen on its $10.1bn acquisition by AbbVie, highlighting its deep experience in structuring equity-based incentive plans and senior executive arrangements in the life sciences sector. Key figures in the team include Renata Ferrari , based in Boston, a go-to adviser on complex public company executive compensation issues, and Allie Alperovich , based in New York, who frequently counsels private equity firms on equity-based awards and ERISA matters. Also based in Boston, Jennifer Rikoski Whitney is also highly regarded for her work with asset managers and pension funds on regulatory and compliance matters.

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP is widely recognized for its sophisticated handling of executive compensation and employee benefits in major corporate transactions. The firm plays a pivotal role in structuring management incentive programs, carried interest arrangements, and equity-based compensation plans, particularly in private equity buyouts, IPOs, and strategic mergers.The team is frequently engaged by leading private equity sponsors and Fortune 500 companies, advising on the design and implementation of executive pay structures, severance protections, and post-merger benefits integration. Recent highlights include advising Blackstone on its $16.1bn acquisition of AirTrunk, and Paramount Global on its $28bn merger with Skydance. The New York-based team includes Gregory Grogan, Brian Robbins, Andrew Blau, and David Rubinsky, all of whom are sought after for their expertise in structuring executive compensation in complex, multi-jurisdictional transactions.

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP advises a global client base on executive compensation and employee benefits matters, particularly in high-value cross-border M&A. The firm regularly collaborates with its M&A and tax teams to address complex issues such as incentive structuring, Section 280G compliance, and benefits integration planning. The firm’s recent work includes advising Mars, Incorporated on its $35.9 billion acquisition of Kellanova, BlackRock on its $12.5bn acquisition of Global Infrastructure Partners, and Juniper Networks on its $14bn sale to Hewlett Packard Enterprise. The executive compensation and benefits group is led by prominent partners such as Joseph Penko  in New York and Page Griffin and Joseph Yaffe in Palo Alto, who are widely recognised for their expertise in incentive design, equity compensation, and regulatory compliance.

Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz advises a prominent client base on executive compensation and employee benefits matters, regularly acting on complex domestic and cross-border transactions, as well as high-profile corporate restructurings. The firm recently led compensation and benefits structuring for Capital One’s $35.3bn acquisition of Discover and Diamondback Energy’s $26bn acquisition of Endeavor, focusing on leadership retention, equity structuring, and compliance with Section 280G of the Internal Revenue Code. The practice also played a key role in the $20bn merger between Smurfit Kappa and WestRock, providing strategic counsel on executive retention, incentive planning, and benefits integration across multiple jurisdictions. Headed by Jeannemarie O’Brien , the team frequently collaborates with the firm’s mergers and acquisitions and tax departments, ensuring comprehensive coverage of regulatory and strategic considerations during deal execution. Adam Shapiro and David Kahan , both based in New York, who are recognized for their expertise in high-value compensation structuring and regulatory compliance. While Michael Schobel focuses on matters advice on designing and implementing compensation arrangements, negotiating executive employment agreements, and handling corporate governance and disclosure issues.

Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP continues to set the standard in executive compensation and employee benefits, advising major corporations, private equity sponsors, and financial institutions on high-profile transactions. The firm is noted for its ability to navigate complex regulatory frameworks, ensuring compliance with ERISA, SEC disclosure requirements, and IRS tax regulations in M&A, IPOs, and restructurings. The firm’s deep bench of attorneys regularly counsels clients on golden parachute arrangements, carried interest structures, and post-merger benefits integration, frequently working alongside boards, compensation committees, and private equity sponsors. The New York team, headed by Paul Wessel,  is also a key advisor in high-stakes regulatory investigations and litigation, including DOJ and Department of Labor inquiries into benefits compliance. Key lawyers Amy Rubin, and Jennifer Haydel Britz are widely recognized for their expertise in transactional benefits structuring and executive pay governance.

Baker McKenzie LLP ’s team is recognised for its global reach and expertise in cross-border transactions, offering one-stop US and international executive compensation and employee benefits advice. The firm  regularly advises on executive compensation, equity plans, and benefits issues in major M&A, spin-offs, and restructuring transactions.  The team’s has notably advised on the impact of the FTC’s non-compete ban and California’s new non-compete notice requirements, attracting significant interest from clients. Recent high-profile mandates include advising Cisco on its $28bn acquisition of Splunk, handling the tax, regulatory, and compliance aspects across 34 jurisdictions. The San Francisco-based team is led by Barbara Klementz, an expert in global equity compensation and executive incentives, with Denise Glagau providing extensive experience in tax and regulatory compliance for global share plans.

Freshfields advises on compensation elements of complex global transactions, led by Lori Goodman, Nicole Foster , and Sarah Ghulamhussain. The team has standout expertise in structuring executive pay in transformative M&A deals, IPOs, and corporate governance matters. With a strong focus on cross-border transactions, the firm seamlessly navigates complex compensation frameworks across multiple jurisdictions. Jordan Salzman, based in New York, advises public companies and private equity funds on employee benefit and compensation issues in mergers, acquisitions, spinoffs, IPOs, and other corporate transactions. The practice is also deeply experienced in advising public companies on governance, incentive structures, and regulatory developments.

Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP is recognised for its deep expertise in executive compensation, employee benefits, and ERISA-related matters, regularly advising on high-value M&A, capital markets, and restructuring transactions. The firm’s compensation team plays a key role in public and private acquisitions, IPOs, and asset management transactions, providing strategic counsel on employment agreements, fiduciary responsibilities, and regulatory compliance. The team is particularly adept at structuring compensation packages in corporate transactions, including governance reviews, early retirement planning, and regulatory filings. The New York-based team is headed by Jeffrey Ross , with Amy Blackman  and Andrea Pollak  bringing additional strength in investment fund structuring and regulatory compliance, regularly advising on fund financings and asset management transactions.

Hogan Lovells US LLP’s team is distinguished by its global reach, deep industry knowledge, and sophisticated transactional expertise, leveraging its presence in key commercial and emerging markets it to advise on complex cross-border executive compensation issues with a seamless integration of corporate, tax, and securities considerations. The team is particularly active in high-profile corporate transactions, including M&A, IPOs, and private equity investments, regularly handling executive pay structuring, incentive plans, and ERISA fiduciary compliance. Recent standout transactions include advising Fenway Sports Group and Strategic Sports Group on a $3bn investment in PGA TOUR Enterprises, restructuring professional golf equity stakes. The practice is led by Martha Steinman in New York, an expert in corporate governance and executive pay matters, alongside Carin Carithers in Washington DC who focuses on M&A-related retention planning, and Silicon Valley-based Michael Frank, a key figure in executive compensation for high-growth tech transactions.

McDermott Will & Emery LLP continues to lead in employee benefits and executive compensation, offering a blend of transactional strength and advisory expertise. Led by Andrew Liazos , the firm’s global employee benefits chair, the team provides sophisticated counsel on executive pay, retirement plans, health and welfare benefits, and ESOPs. Other key team members includingJacob Mattinson in Chicago and Allison Wilkerson in Dallas. The firm handles both complex M&A-related benefits issues and standalone advisory work.

Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP advises on benefits, executive pay structures, and regulatory compliance. Leveraging a team including former IRS, DOL, and DOJ officials, the firm provides strategic, interdisciplinary advice spanning retirement and health plans, incentive compensation, payroll tax, M&A, and government investigations. Clients include global corporations, startups, tax-exempt entities, and educational institutions. The firm is headed by Craig Bitman  based in New York and Amy Pocino Kelly in Philadelphia, with standout Gena Yoo advising on employee benefit plan sponsors and administrators on matters related to executive compensation, fiduciary governance, ERISA prohibited transaction rules, and investment-related agreements for private equity, hedge, and collective investment funds.

Proskauer Rose LLP’s team combines transactional, regulatory, and litigation expertise to corporations, private equity firms, and financial institutions. The team has been at the forefront of significant transactions, including advising Arkema on its acquisition of Dow’s flexible packaging laminating adhesives business, and Fortress Credit Corp in the Red Lobster restructuring. The firm offers deep understanding of fiduciary regulations, compliance issues, and executive retention planning. Headed by Seth Safra in Washington DC, the team works with clients across a variety of industries, with particular strength in the financial services space. Andrea Rattner in New York specializes in advising clients on equity awards, change-in-control provisions, and post-transaction compensation in corporate transactions.

A&O Shearman has broad expertise across executive compensation, employment, and governance, navigating high-stakes corporate transactions, including executive pay in billion-dollar M&A deals, alongside guiding boards through governance challenges. Brian Jebb and John Cannon, both global co-heads of the practice, bring deep expertise in cross-border transactions, with knowledge of regulatory landscapes and market trends. Known for its ability to handle intricate compensation structures, post-transaction integration, and equity plan design, the firm is a go-to for private equity giants, tech innovators, and multinational corporations.

Cooley LLP is widely recognised for its expertise in executive compensation and employee benefits, advising companies at every stage of their lifecycle. The firm plays a critical role in high-stakes M&A, IPOs, SPAC transactions, and other corporate transitions, ensuring that compensation structures align with strategic business objectives. Led by Barbara Mirza in Los Angeles and a team of top-tier attorneys, including Alessandra Murata in Palo Alto, the practice is known for its ability to navigate complex compensation matters across industries, particularly in technology, life sciences, and artificial intelligence. With a strong presence in key innovation hubs, the firm combines deep industry knowledge with a pragmatic, business-focused approach, positioning itself as a go-to advisor for high-growth companies and market-leading public corporations.

Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP is highly regarded for its multidisciplinary approach, seamlessly integrating securities, tax, and labor law expertise to provide comprehensive advice on executive compensation, incentive plans, and ERISA compliance. The firm is a trusted advisor on M&A, IPOs, and private equity transactions, frequently assisting Fortune 500 companies and investment funds with benefits structuring, retention strategies, and fiduciary compliance. The team is particularly active in high-profile corporate deals, including advising Pioneer Natural Resources on its $64.5bn merger with ExxonMobil. The practice is co-led by Sean Feller in Century City, who specialises in executive incentives and retention planning and Krista Hanvey in Dallas, an expert in corporate benefits structuring and securities compliance.

Goodwin has strong expertise in ERISA and executive compensation, offering experience to advising clients on the full spectrum of compensation and benefits matters. Co-chaired by Patrick Menasco in Washington DC, and James Mattus in Boston, the team is known for its deep expertise in M&A, IPOs, private equity, and fiduciary issues under ERISA. The firm is a go-to advisor for financial institutions, investment funds, and emerging growth companies, offering strategic counsel on equity arrangements, golden parachutes, and retirement plan structures.

Morrison Foerster’s EBEC team is an integral part of the firm’s transactional practice, advising clients across all stages of corporate growth. With expertise spanning executive compensation, pension plans, and complex regulatory compliance, the group plays a pivotal role in structuring high-profile M&A, IPOs, and cross-border transactions. The practice is widely recognised for its depth of expertise in private equity, financial services, and technology transactions, advising clients such as Autodesk, eBay, and SoftBank Group. The team is particularly adept at navigating ERISA’s fiduciary and prohibited transaction rules, advising on pension plan investments and structuring equity compensation arrangements that align with business strategy. Co-headed by Domnick Bozzetti   and Joshua Lerner, the group also provides strategic counsel on governance matters, tax implications, and disclosure requirements in capital markets transactions. Yuan Xia , based in Palo Alto, advises on executive compensation in domestic and cross-border transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, and public offerings. Recent work underscores their ability to guide industry leaders through transformative deals.

Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP has cemented its reputation in executive compensation and benefits, offering strategic advice on high-stakes M&A, IPOs, and corporate governance matters. Led by Juliano Banuelos, the team is a trusted partner to major multinational corporations and emerging growth companies alike. The firm’s expertise spans equity arrangements, compensation structuring, and global benefits compliance, with a strong focus on cross-border transactions.

Paul Hastings LLP’s tax and benefits team, led by Stephen Harris  in Los Angeles, Eric Keller  in Washington, DC, and Dan Stellenberg in Palo Alto, advises on a broad range of executive compensation and employee benefits matters. The team regularly advises clients in sectors like technology and hedge funds, and are known for their ability to navigate tax-qualified plans, fiduciary obligations, and cross-border benefits structuring. The group is experienced in structuring incentive plans, negotiating employment agreements, and handling benefits issues in major corporate transactions. Recent highlights include advising financial institutions and private equity firms on complex compensation arrangements. The team is recognized for providing strategic solutions in ERISA-related matters, with expertise in high-profile C-suite negotiations.

Vinson & Elkins LLP works with clients on compensation matters at the intersection of corporate transactions and governance. Led by David D’Alessandro  in Houston and David Peck  in Dallas, the team advises on equity arrangements, incentive structures, and regulatory compliance in M&A, IPOs, and private equity transactions, including structuring executive packages in billion-dollar mergers or advising on tax-efficient benefit strategies.

White & Case LLP’s team is recognised for its cross-border capabilities, advising multinational corporations and private equity firms on executive compensation, incentive structures, and regulatory compliance in complex transactions. Led by Henrik Patel in New York, the team is well-versed in public company M&A, IPOs, and restructurings, offering strategic guidance on severance arrangements, equity plans, and SEC disclosures. The practice is further strengthened by expertise in employment law and benefits structuring.

Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP ‘s executive compensation and benefits team is recognised for its sophisticated handling of high-stakes transactional matters, seamlessly advising private equity sponsors, asset managers, and corporate clients. The practice is led by Michael Katz and Jordan Messinger,  who provide strategic guidance on complex compensation structures, ERISA compliance, and governance considerations. The team has been instrumental in structuring compensation frameworks for major M&A deals and public offerings, including high-profile transactions for private equity firms and multinational corporations. With expertise spanning fund formations, insurance-linked securities, and regulatory matters, the group works closely with the firm’s corporate and finance practices on complex matters, with standout involvements for Insight Partners.

Baker Botts L.L.P. advises clients on executive compensation and employee benefits, particularly in the face of regulatory scrutiny and evolving disclosure requirements. The firm navigates compensation design, shareholder approval processes, and compliance with SEC and stock exchange regulations. Its expertise extends to M&A, private equity, ERISA compliance, and litigation. Robin Melman , chair of the firmwide practice, counsels boards, committees, and executives on high-stakes compensation issues, particularly during management transitions. Jason Loden, based in Dallas, focuses on plan administration and ERISA compliance, guiding clients through mergers and acquisitions. In Houston, Gail Stewart blends legal expertise with negotiation skills, advising on equity incentives and executive contracts. Dallas-based David Schiller brings deep transactional and litigation experience, covering matters ranging from golden parachutes to pension plans.

Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP handles pension plan investments, structuring innovative investment vehicles, and regulatory ERISA matters. The firm represents financial services firms, hedge funds, private equity sponsors, and corporate boards, advising on compliance and transactional issues. James Frazier specialises in ERISA fiduciary standards and prohibited transaction provisions, representing clients in complex regulatory matters and before the Department of Labor. Andrew O’Brien focuses on M&A, leveraged buyouts, and executive compensation, advising public and private companies, management teams, and senior executives on employment and separation agreements, incentive compensation structures, and non-qualified retirement programs. All lawyers mentioned are in New York.

DLA Piper LLP (US) is recognised for its strength in executive compensation and employee benefits, particularly in high-value M&A. The firm has a strong track record advising on cross-border deals, complex equity arrangements, and post-transaction integration. Led by Rita Patel, Richard Ashley , Julia Kovacs, Michelle Lara, and Keith Ranta, the team is well-positioned to support clients on intricate compensation structures and strategic benefits planning.

Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer ’s executive compensation and employee benefits team plays a pivotal role in M&A, private equity buyouts, and complex restructurings. The team, based in New York, advises public and private companies, non-profits, senior executives, and compensation committees on incentive plans, deferred compensation agreements, severance packages, and compliance matters. Cases also includes transactional due diligence and ERISA-related counsel. Marissa J. Holob , chair of the practice, specializes in retirement plans, incentive structures, and compliance matters, particularly in M&A and restructuring contexts. Robert N. Holtzman  , co-chair of the practice, advises on executive contracts, employment disputes, restrictive covenants, and equity-based compensation, representing clients in high-stakes litigation and strategic corporate transactions. Sumaya Ullah Restagno  advises clients in corporate transactions, including retirement and welfare plans, deferred compensation, golden parachutes, and post-closing benefits, while also assisting with the design and administration of retirement plans, welfare plans, employment agreements, and regulatory compliance.

Mayer Brown International LLP advises U.S. and multinational corporations on employee benefits, executive compensation, and pension investments. Headed by Maureen Gorman  , the firm works with investment managers, banks, and institutional fiduciaries and represents clients before regulatory agencies, including the IRS and the Department of Labor. Its practice covers compliance, transactions, and disputes related to compensation and benefits. Debra Hoffman focuses on employee benefit plans and executive compensation, advising public and private clients on compliance and regulatory matters. Ryan Liebl  designs and administers compensation plans, including nonqualified deferred compensation and equity-based agreements, with experience in cross-border transactions. Stephanie Vasconcellos  drafts and negotiates employment and severance agreements, incentive plans, and retention agreements, assisting clients with regulatory compliance and corrections, including Section 409A.

McGuireWoods LLP maintains a growing employee benefits and executive compensation practice, handling a broad range of matters for a diverse client base across industries. Led by Taylor Wedge French in Charlotte and Gerald Thomas in Atlanta, the team regularly advises on incentive compensation structures, ERISA compliance, and executive agreements. The firm’s experience spans complex benefits-related transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, and restructuring mandates. Clients include major financial institutions, energy providers, and multinational corporations, with the firm frequently engaged for its ability to navigate intricate benefits programs. The practice continues to expand its national footprint, with figures such as Robert Wynne  and Allison Tanner playing a key role.

WilmerHale ’s executive compensation and employee benefits practice, led by Kim Wethly in Boston, advises employers, executives, and benefits providers on a range of compensation and benefits matters. The team handles equity and nonqualified compensation plans, ERISA and 401(k) issues, and compliance with SEC and IRS regulations. The firm’s expertise extends to advising multinational clients on cross-border compensation strategies and structuring employee benefits in corporate transactions. Wethly is noted for her experience in advising corporate boards and executives on compensation committees and incentive plans. Clients span various industries, including technology, financial services, and life sciences.

Winston & Strawn LLP ’s employee benefits and executive compensation team is well-versed in handling transactional and regulatory matters for a diverse client base, including Fortune 500 companies, private equity firms, and financial institutions. Led by Joseph Adams in Chicago and Scott Landau  in New York, the team provides strategic counsel on ERISA, incentive equity, and executive compensation issues in complex M&A and restructuring deals. The team offers expertise in compensation arrangements, severance plans, and compliance matters. The firm has been engaged in significant transactions, assisting clients with high-value deals and navigating evolving regulatory frameworks. Maria Kenny , based in New York, advises public and private companies, private equity clients, while also assisting with executive employment agreements, severance plans, equity arrangements, non-qualified retirement plans, and welfare benefit plans.

ArentFox Schiff ’s practice focuses on compensation arrangements and employee benefits, particularly in the context of mergers and acquisitions. The team supports deal negotiations by advising on benefits representations and warranties in transaction documents and conducting due diligence on executive compensation and benefits plans for both buyers and sellers. The practice also provides strategic counsel on regulatory compliance and benefits matters. Led by experienced partners across multiple offices, the team offers broad expertise and serves clients across a diverse range of sectors, including manufacturing, hospitality, sports, and food and beverage. Washington DC-based Quana Jew ’s expertise includes advising clients on retirement plans, executive compensation, and health and welfare benefits. Mamta Shah, based in the New York office, focuses on employee benefit plans and benefits issues in business transactions. Brian Friederich in Chicago counsels companies and executives primarily on equity incentive plans, employment agreements, and compensation packages.

Bracewell LLP ’s practice focuses on executive compensation and employee benefits. Led by team partner Matthew Grunert  , who oversees the department from Houston, the practice advises public and private companies, as well as private equity funds and portfolio companies, primarily in the energy sector. The team provides counsel on structuring executive compensation packages, negotiating employment transfer terms, and ensuring compliance with corporate governance and securities regulations.

Milbank advises on executive compensation and employee benefits, particularly in corporate restructurings, bankruptcies, and M&A. The firm’s ECEB group is well-versed in structuring compensation arrangements in public company deals, private equity transactions, spin-offs, and IPOs. Manan Shah, based in New York, counsels boards and compensation committees on executive compensation matters, including employment, separation, and change-of-control agreements. He regularly advises on compensation structures in corporate restructurings and M&A. Also in New York, Joel Krasnow specializes in ERISA fiduciary rules and provides guidance on compensation and benefits issues in financial restructurings and mergers.

Mintz, Levin, Cohn, Ferris, Glovsky and Popeo, P.C. provides counsel on executive compensation and employee benefits, representing companies, private equity firms, hedge funds, and executives. Headed by Michael Arnold , the firm advises on compensation structures in M&A, private equity transactions, and venture capital investments across industries such as healthcare, technology, and retail. Andrew Bernstein , based in New York, focuses on executive compensation negotiations for senior executives and management teams. In Boston, Benjamin Ferrucci advises on ERISA- related corporate matters and designs retention and incentive plans. New York-based David Lagasse structures and implements deferred compensation and equity arrangements in transactional contexts.

Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP advises public and private clients on executive compensation, employee benefits, and ERISA fiduciary matters in both transactional and regulatory contexts. Headed by Nora Burke , the team counsels on domestic and international benefits, equity compensation, ERISA compliance, contract negotiations, and governmental audits, with a strong focus on M&A. Key partners lead the practice across multiple offices. In New York, Peter Hunt   specializes in pension and 401(k) plans, deferred compensation, and ERISA fiduciary matters. Austin-based Jessica Lutrin focuses on compensation structures in transactional and advisory settings. In San Francisco, Christine Richardson guides clients on employee benefits, particularly in the retail, e-commerce, and consumer brands sectors.

Schulte Roth & Zabel LLP is recognized for its expertise in advising private equity firms, hedge funds, and asset managers on the executive compensation and employee benefits aspects of complex transactions. The team is well-versed in structuring equity compensation arrangements, deferred compensation plans, and ERISA compliance matters. Ronald Richman  and Mark Brossman are key figures in the practice, regularly advising clients on incentive compensation structures and regulatory considerations. The group is also noted for its experience handling compensation issues in fund formations and investment transactions. With a client base spanning major financial institutions and investment firms, the team continues to provide strategic counsel on sophisticated compensation and benefits matters.