Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr > Johannesburg, South Africa > Firm Profile
Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr Offices
1 PROTEA PLACE
SANDTON
JOHANNESBURG 2196
South Africa
Profiles
Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr > The Legal 500 Rankings
South Africa > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 1
The ‘very practical‘ corporate team at Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr has ‘a deep understanding of the South African legal, regulatory and commercial landscape‘, and also garners praise for having ‘an immense amount of experience in closing M&A transactions across various jurisdictions‘. Practice head Ian Hayes handles the full gamut of corporate and commercial work, and advises a roster of blue-chip clients in the telecoms, retail and mining sectors on corporate finance, M&A, takeovers, private equity transactions and restructurings, to name a few areas of expertise. Willem Jacobs is highly regarded for his M&A expertise, and is well known for advising on complex, cross-border transactions. The ‘well-informed‘ Vivien Chaplin acts for mining sector clients, and Jaco Meyer has ‘in-depth knowledge and understanding of his field and provides insightful, expert advice‘. Dane Kruger and Roxanna Valayathum also play important roles in the practice group.Practice head(s):
Ian Hayes
Other key lawyers:
Willem Jacobs; Justine Krige; Vivien Chaplin; Jaco Meyer; Roxanna Valayathum; Dane Kruger; Peter Hesseling
Testimonials
‘They have felt like true partners. They understand our business and objectives, pre-empt next steps and have always made themselves available when we need them most. ’
‘CDH is client orientated and takes time to collaborate with various industry experts to ensure that a client is supported effectively.’
‘Good legal advice. Quick turnaround times.’
‘The team is results driven and has a practical approach to M&A transactions.’
‘Very prompt responses and always available at short notice.’
‘Roxanna Valayathum – she drafts excellently. She is always available to assist and give advice. Her ability to understand the commercials of a transaction is impressive.’
‘Vivien Chaplin and Jaco Meyer have provided outstanding support and assistance. They are always willing to give advice, support and meet deadlines that are often challenging. They offer various solutions, suggestions and beneficial outcomes.’
‘Always looking for solutions.’
Key clients
ABSA Group
Accenture
AFGRI Holdings
Africa Fruit Holdings
Africa Oil
African Clean Energy Developments
African Rainbow Capital Investments
Alaris Holdings
Aloecap Private Equity Investments
Ampath
Arrowhead Properties
Anglo American
Apple
Associated Fruit Processors
Azelis
Banc of California
BBC Studios
Bentley Systems
Bergson Holdings
Berkshire Hathaway
Blantyre Capital
Brait
Brimstone Investment Corporation
Brose International
Burger King Holdings
Capital & Regional
Capitec Bank Holdings
China Communications Construction Company
Climate Focus
Communicare
Coronation Fund Managers
Curro Holdings
Distell Group
DRDGold
Eco Atlantic Oil & Gas
Enernet Global
EOH Holdings
EPP BV
Ethos
Fidelity Security Group
FirstRand
Harmony Gold
HG Capital
Imperial Logistics
Ipsidy
Irongate Group
Kaap Agri
L1 Health
Leapfrog Investments Holdings
Libstar Holdings
Liquid Telecommunications
Malundi
Masimong Electrical Holdings
Massmart Holdings
Matlosana Medical Health Services
Mediclinic International
Mondelēz International
MSC II Investments
Naspers
NEPI Rockcastle
Nordic Impact Funds
Northern Platinum
Old Mutual
Oppenheimer Partners Africa Advisors
Pioneer Food
PPC
Protea Hospitality Holdings
Prudential Financial
PSG Group
Reinet Investments SCA
Remgro
Royal Dutch Shell
Sabinet Online
Sanlam
Serengeti Energy
Shoprite Holdings
Sibanye-Stillwater
Sinopec
South African Airways
South32 SA Coal Holdings
Sovereign Food Investments
Standard Bank Group
Stellar Capital Partners
Sun International
Tamela Group
Tiso Blackstar Group
Tower Property Fund
Transaction Capital
Transatlantic Investments
Trafigura
Upjohn South Africa
Valeo Capital
Vodacom
Volaris Group
Volkswagen
Vox Telecommunications
Vumatel
Women’s Consortium
Woolworths Holdings
South Africa > Dispute resolution Tier 1
Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr’s dispute resolution team garners praise for its ‘professional approach and sound advice, and has a pragmatic approach to managing disputes‘. Practice head Rishaban Moodley regularly advises on commercial litigation and forensic investigations; Lucinde Rhoodie stands out as ‘an exceptional and formidable litigator‘ with expertise in banking litigation, insolvency litigation, shareholders disputes and commercial disputes. The ‘very knowledgeable and professional‘ Clive Rumsey specialises in engineering and construction litigation, while Mongezi Mpahlwa is very experienced in handling commercial arbitrations. Corné Lewis is ‘a straight shooter who manages client expectations well and is incredibly strategic in his approach‘. Tim Fletcher, Jackwell Feris and Anja Hofmeyr are also star names in the department.Practice head(s):
Rishaban Moodley
Other key lawyers:
Tim Fletcher; Clive Rumsey; Lucinde Rhoodie; Mongezi Mpahlwa; Jackwell Feris; Corné Lewis; Anja Hofmeyr
Testimonials
‘Professional approach and sound advice. Pragmatic approach to managing disputes.’
‘Clive Rumsey is the key counsel for dispute resolution. Clive’s effort to better understand the business and the matter under review is key to the success of the dispute resolution. He delivers on time, supports the management of the matter and the timelines, and provides key advice based on his broad knowledge of the industry and dispute resolution processes.’
‘Immediate efficient responses.’
‘Corné Lewis is incredibly practical and well rounded in his understanding of customer needs and risk management. I highly trust him to provide meaningful support and legal advisory services for any instruction he is entrusted to manage.’
‘Very good litigation team, subject matter expertise, great negotiating skills, very responsive.’
‘The team reacts efficiently and swiftly to any requests from the client.’
‘The team is technically very strong and commercially astute. This is a value for service offering whereby the firm seeks to charge its clients realistically for the services offered, which means that the client receives a high value for money service offering that exceeds expectations in all cases in my experience.’
‘Anja Hofmeyr who provides excellent service in a demanding and emotionally charged area of law with an understated confidence. She is a highly skilled and empathetic legal practitioner who ensures that you always understand the status of your particular matter.’
Key clients
Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa
Advtech
Coca-Cola
The Independent Institute of Education
Liberty Group
Liquid Telecommunications South African
Lombard Insurance Company
Mylan South Africa
Nedbank
Sun International
Spar Group
Tsebo Solutions Group
Mediclinic Group
Afrimat
Atlantis Foundries
Arrowgem
Sasol Siyakha Supplier and Enterprise Development Trust
South32
South Africa > Employment Tier 1
Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr’s employment team reports an uptick in matters involving allegations of discrimination, and has also been kept busy handling disputes relating to strike management, a key area of expertise for Hugo Pienaar. Department head Aadil Patel represents prominent private and public sector employers in a wide range of employment issues, and Fiona Leppan is highly regarded for acting for engineering, mining and metals, financial services and retail clients. Imraan Mahomed is very experienced in handling employment litigation, compliance and transactional work. Anli Bezuidenhout and Phetheni Nkuna are key figures in the practice. Faryn Nana joined the team in July 2023.Practice head(s):
Aadil Patel
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Aadil Patel and Anli Bezuidenhoudt are exceptional to work with as they have the ability to translate what we need from legal language to corporate language; they understand the dynamics of the corporate client environment; and they go the extra mile to make you feel like you are a valued client.’
‘They are clear and pragmatic in their advice, and do not give fluffy “it depends” answers. They were also willing to go above and beyond to support us locally where we had no physical presence and provide hands-on support in a very difficult situation.’
Key clients
Arcelormittal South Africa
Pagero
Multichoice
Kwa Zulu Natal Growth Fund Trust
University of Cape Town
Estee Lauder
Rustenburg Platinum Mines
National Lotteries Commission
Work highlights
- Advised Arcelormittal, at the Essential Services Committee (ESC), on an investigation into whether the manufacture, production, supply and distribution of steel should be designated as an essential service.
- Representing MultiChoice in ongoing contentious matters arising from the dismissal of employees who refused the Covid vaccination.
- Advising Kwa Zulu Natal Growth Fund Trust in connection with an internal disciplinary hearing on behalf of the Trust regarding alleged misconduct perpetuated by a senior employee.
South Africa > Real estate Tier 1
Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr‘s prominent real estate practice houses a team ‘well-versed in property matters and able to provide holistic advice on transactions‘. Practice head Muhammad Gattoo has extensive experience in commercial property finance matters, and regularly acts for prominent financial institutions and international financiers in high-value transactions. Gattoo is also noted for his strength in advising on sectional title registers and property transfers. Simóne Franks stands out for her work in relation to property-related transfers, and Fatima Gattoo handles sectional title developments and the registration of complex securities. John Webber‘s extensive experience in the real estate sector includes advising on land use conversions and land developments. Samantha Kelly and Bridget Witts-Hewinson are also singled out for their contributions. Lucia Erasmus and William Midgley have retired from practice.Practice head(s):
Muhammad Gattoo
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The response time is swift and turnaround time on instructions is excellent.’
‘I have worked with Muhammad Gattoo, Fatima Gattoo and John Webber. They are respectful, hard working, knowledgeable and provide assistance whenever it is needed.’
‘No matter how busy they are, they always assist us.’
‘Samantha is very easy going and a clear communicator.’
Key clients
Pinaroux International Holdco
Sun International
Attacq
Texton
Century Property Developments
Abland
Tsogo Sun Casinos
HCI Monte Precinct
Setso Property Fund
Sable Place Properties
King Air
Stedham Investments
Game Camp
Pioneer Foods
Galencia Properties
HBZ Bank
Vukile
MICC
Equites
Communicare
Albaraka Bank
Investec Commercial Bonds
Nedbank Commercial Bonds
First National Bank Commercial Property Finance
ABSA Commercial Property Finance
Busamed
FNB
Nedbank
Investec Bank
South Africa > Tax Tier 1
Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr‘s leading tax and exchange control practice has a solid track record in assisting prominent domestic and international clients with contentious, regulatory and transactional tax work. Practice head Emil Brincker is highly regarded for his expertise in advising on the tax aspects of corporate restructurings and reorganisations. Director Gerhard Badenhorst, a chartered accountant, is sought after for his excellent track record in handling VAT work, while Stephan Spamer focuses on assisting major industry leaders with the tax structuring of cross-border transactions. Howmera Parak is a key name for international tax and exchange control matters, and Jerome Brink‘s workload includes handling dispute resolution and tax controversy issues, the taxation of trusts and transfer pricing cases. Lance Collop left the firm in January 2023.Practice head(s):
Emil Brincker
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Competent, efficient and quick.’
‘They listen to your problems and make various suggestions to reach the correct conclusion or corrective actions. ’
‘The uniqueness of this practice is the professionals involved – focused and available. They are exceptional.’
‘Gerhard Badenhorst’s integrity and expertise is unrivalled.’
‘Excellent tax professionals that provide the full spectrum of tax services, including tax dispute resolution and tax advice.’
‘The service from Emil Brincker is excellent. His turnaround time on providing advice or responding to tax disputes on behalf of a taxpayer is astonishing.’
‘Gerhard Badenhorst is always willing to provide practical VAT advice on transactions on short notice.’
Key clients
TDE
South Africa > Banking and finance Tier 2
Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr’s banking and finance team stands out for being ‘commercial and pragmatic with excellent industry knowledge‘. Cross-border mandates form a key pillar of the practice, and the group is well known for its strength in handling debt and equity capital markets and financial restructuring matters. Mashudu Mphafudi, who heads the department, represents financial institutions in corporate and project finance matters, and is well-versed in acting for agriculture, infrastructure, renewable energy and mining clients. Pitso Kortjaas has experience advising on structured and leveraged finance, securitisations and sustainability-linked facilities. Ludwig Smith, Jess Reid, and Michael Bailey play important roles in the practice. Jenni Darling left the firm in March 2023.Practice head(s):
Mashudu Mphafudi
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team at CDH we work with is always ready; even though work may come up unplanned, it never seems that they are pressured for time. They are also practical in finding solutions.’
‘Willingness to listen, help and be flexible.’
‘Deep expertise in the practice.’
Key clients
Nedbank
Richemont
A2X Markets
Hyprop
Investec Property Fund
Transcend Residential Property Fund
The International Swaps and Derivatives Association Incorporated
Investec Equity partners
Vumatel
Old Mutual
Royal Bafokeng National Development Trust
Sanlam
Northern Platinum
Liquid Telecom Group
Vodafone Group Services
Lonmin
Tiso Investment Holdings
Anglo American
Standard Bank Group
Apis
PIC
IDC
Noble Resources International
ABSA Bank
FirstRand Bank
L1
Blantyre
MCSA
Stor-Age
Irongate Funds Management
True South 1
Motus Holdings
Harmony Gold
South Africa > Competition Tier 2
The competition practice at Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr has an established track record in assisting with market inquiries and investigations brought by the Competition Commission, and is also strong in advising on the competition law aspects of prominent mergers. Led by Chris Charter, the team has been kept especially busy assisting clients in the financial services, energy, healthcare and food and beverages sectors. Susan Meyer is well versed in representing healthcare entities in complex cross-border mergers, and competition law specialist Albert Aukema regularly advises on prohibited practices proceedings. Lara Granville‘s varied workload includes advising on cartel investigations and merger control matters. Andries le Grange and Reece May are other key figures in the department.Practice head(s):
Chris Charter
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team takes the time to really understand the business of each of our clients and have an immense amount of experience in transactions across numerous African jurisdictions. The relationship they have built with the South African competition authorities makes the process so much quicker and easier. ’
‘Susan Meyer is always available and provides prompt and exceptional service to our clients. Her knowledge and experience are unmatched.’
‘What has impressed me is the ability of the team to properly engage, to listen, apply or reject the information fed to them, and turn around the work promptly so that the momentum is not lost and the continuous reviews can take place. We have been super-impressed. In addition, the team displays good commercial sense/acumen to complement their exceptional legal expertise in this field.’
‘What a pleasure to work with attorneys who have a high regard for the input available from the client, but will not be shaken off course.’
‘Susan Meyer is simply outstanding! She is calm, concise, engaging and consistent.’
‘The team is always proactive.’
‘Chris Charter is well versed in the law and always available to debate issues pertaining to developments at the commission.’
Key clients
The Coca-Cola Company
Cosco Shipping
Computershare
Fidelity Services Group
Mediclinic
Old Mutual
GAP Chemicals
EASEED Group
Anglo American
ANZ
Hygrotech Properties
British American Tobacco
Legae Peresec
Massmart
Lonmin
Pelo Agricultural Ventures
Public Investment Corporation
Roche
Shell
Trafigura
Vodacom
Remgro
AdvTech
Curro Schools
Aveng
Capitalworks
Arcelor Mittal
EnviroServ
Investec
Kagiso Tiso Holdings
Parmalat
Tiso Blackstar Group
Liquid Telecoms
Technology Management Services (TCM)
Avon Justine
Rymco
Various Oppenheimer Group Companies
Bud Group
Manganese Producers Consortium
Minister of Economic Development
Business Connexion
Jasco Electronics Holdings
RCL
FNZ
Total-Energies
Sabre Corp
LG
Merck
Sibanye-Stillwater
Corruseal
Lesaka Technologies
African Bank
Azelis
CIB Insurance
DN Invest Proprietary
Food Lovers Market
PSG Group
Apex Partners
Fortress REIT
FNB
Senwes
VKB
Hollywood Bets
Spear REIT
Pam Golding
Vumatel
Engie
BetterHome Group
Sentech
Tiger Brands
Manganese Producers’ Consortium
Mainstream Renewable Power
PPC
National Land Rover Dealers Association South Africa
Babcock Plant Services
Dark Fibre Africa
Hatfield Holdings
Puma Energy
FirstRand Bank
South Africa > Construction Tier 2
Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr’s team has ‘very specialized knowledge of construction‘. Clive Rumsey leads the practice, which stands out for its expertise in handling complex, high-profile disputes in the space. The group has been kept busy advising energy and natural resources companies on cross-border litigation. The department leverages the expertise of the firm’s projects and infrastructure group to assist with related public procurement matters; Andrew van Niekerk is the key practitioner to note for this line of work. Joe Whittle, Timothy Baker and Krevania Pillay are also singled out for their contributions to the team.Practice head(s):
Clive Rumsey
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The individuals have attention to detail and are very meticulous and strategic in approaching problems.’
‘Andrew van Niekerk is a star.’
Key clients
Scatec Solar
Cennergi (Exxaro Energy)
FATA EPC
Arcelor Mittal
Vutomi Energy
South Africa > Investment funds Tier 2
At Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr, the investment funds team has established strength in advising managers and investors on fund formation, investments, structuring matters and regulatory issues. Department head John Gillmer is ‘a highly experienced attorney who offers efficient, pragmatic and legally sound advice; he is always available and an effective communicator.’ Gillmer has a solid track record in assisting international and domestic financial institutions with the formation of investment funds, which is also a key area of expertise for Wayne Murray. Structuring mandates are prominent in Nuhaa Amardien‘s workload.Practice head(s):
John Gillmer
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team demonstrates a robust understanding of the investment fund industry, consistently devising innovative solutions for intricate problems. Their responsiveness is remarkable, as they are consistently available for discussions. They promptly grasp the issue at hand and display a proactive approach in identifying the most suitable and customized solutions.’
‘John Gillmer undoubtedly exemplifies expertise in this field, showcasing exceptional efficiency in his work. He successfully assembled a highly skilled and professional team. Similarly, Nuhaa Amardien possesses profound knowledge and a strong grasp of the intricacies within the fund’s industry, effortlessly comprehending its challenges and nuances.’
‘Deep knowledge of private equity structures.’
‘John Gillmer is experienced and obviously an expert in the field of private equity. He has the ability to explain complex legal issues in layman’s language.’
‘The general knowledge of the team allows them to think outside the box and provide holistic solutions to problems. The team is reliable and we can go to them on just about any matter. ’
Key clients
27four Investment Managers
Novare Equity Partners
PIC
PAPE
Old Mutual (IDEAS Fund)
Coronation Fund Managers
Nesa Capital
CoreShares
ASO Capital
Ascension Capital Partners
Aleyo Capital
Ditikeni Investment Company
Vunani Capital Partners
Mergence Investment Managers
Alexander Forbes
Metier Private Equity
Industrial Development Corporation of SA
Leapfrog Investments Holdings
RMB Ventures
AIH Capital
Visio Fund Management
Agrarius Agri Value Chain and Agrarius Sustainability Engineered
Education Investment Impact Fund of South Africa (EduFund)
Futuregrowth Asset Management
Investec Wealth & Investments International
Investec Bank (UK)
Marriott Asset Management
NAGA Global
Africa50 Infrastructure Acceleration Fund I
Amethis Investment Fund Manager
Dominion Fund Management
South Africa > Mining Tier 2
Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr’s mining and minerals practice ‘has a deep talent pool‘ with a ‘qualified, attentive and efficient‘ team. Department head Allan Reid ‘has many years of experience and is well respected in the mining industry.’ Vivien Chaplin has a strong reputation for assisting clients in the manganese and aluminium mining space with supply and offtake agreements - she also advises on regulatory issues. Burton Meyer is a key name for contentious matters. Ian Hayes, Fiona Leppan, and Rachel Kelly are key figures in the department.Practice head(s):
Allan Reid
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Allan Reid is an expert in his field and has extensive knowledge of multiple different aspects or branches of law. His advice has always been solid, his service delivery has been consistent, and there is a strong relationship built on trust.’
‘The team works collaboratively with its clients and is always willing to support and assist. The team always makes itself available and is professional as well as quick to provide feedback.’
‘Vivien Chaplin and Rachel Kelly are exceptional.’
Key clients
Waterberg JV Resources
Seriti Power
South32 (which includes Samancor Manganese Hotazel Manganese Mines and Hillside Aluminium)
ABSA Property Development
Platinum Group Metals
Sibanye Stillwater
Samancor Chrome
Harmony Gold
Kumba Iron Ore
Anglo American
Anglo Gold
Rustenburg Platinum Mines
ArcelorMittal
CAPM African Precious Metals
BHP Billiton South Africa
Jagersfontein Developments
Rooipoort Developments
Foskor
Glencore Operations South Africa
Village Main Reef
Rio Tinto
Tshiamiso Trust
Thungela Resources
African Rainbow Minerals
Rustenburg Platinum Mines
Bokoni Platinum Mines
South Africa > Projects and infrastructure Tier 2
At Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr, oil and gas work remains a key area of instruction for the energy team, which continues to handle M&A, project finance, PPAs, IPP procurement and construction contracts pertaining to embedded and large-scale power generation projects. Infrastructure expert Andrew van Niekerk jointly leads the practice with Megan Rodgers, who specialises in upstream oil and gas matters. Tessa Brewis brings experience in handling M&A and project development matters in relation to renewable energy projects. Anita Moolman advises on public-private partnerships and public sector procurement matters. Amore Carstens also stands out for her contributions.Practice head(s):
Megan Rodgers; Andrew van Niekerk
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Andrew van Niekerk and Tessa Brewis are brilliant in their field.’
Key clients
Eco (Atlantic) Oil and Gas
The National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (NAMCOR)
Cennergi (Exxaro Energy)
Lephalale Solar Project (LSP)
Africa Energy Corp
Searcher Seismic
Newcastle Energy
FATA EPC
Scatec
AMEA Power
Daystar Power
Puma Energy
Go Solr
Arcelor Mittal
Serengeti Energy
Sasol Africa
Richard Bay Gas Power 2
Metier Investment and Advisory Services
Old Mutual Life Assurance Company (South Africa)
African Clean Energy Developments
Energy Infrastructure Management Services
Kenya > Commercial, corporate and M&A
Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr incorporating Kieti Law LLP is predominantly involved in regulated industries including renewable energy, fintech, healthcare, and environment, assisting with a variety of cross-border corporate and M&A transactions. Practice head Sammy Ndolo specialises in banking, finance, and capital markets work, working alongside private equity and venture capital expert Njeri Wagacha. Martha Mbugua of boutique firm Law3sixty joined the team following a merger in September 2022.Practice head(s):
Sammy Ndolo
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team has extensive knowledge in corporate, commercial, tax and IP-related matters.’
Key clients
Norrskken 22
AlphaMundi Group
The Cradle Journey
Creadev International
Acumen Resilient Agriculture Fund (ARAF)
Work highlights
Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr > Firm Profile
Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr (CDH) is a full-service law firm – with an extensive reach across Africa – consisting of more than 260 lawyers and a track record spanning over 170 years.
Offering across the African continent: CDH’s Africa practice leverages resources and expertise of leading business law firms across the continent, tapping into a wealth of experience, particularly when it comes to acting for governments, state agencies and multinational organisations. Our Nairobi office, Kieti Law LLP, is a leading Kenyan law firm that provides personalised legal services of the highest quality in key specialist areas of practice. Our Africa practice brings together the resources and expertise of leading business law firms across the continent that have direct experience acting for governments, state agencies and multinational organisations. This combined experience across the continent produces an extensive African capability. We also partner with other professional disciplines such as audit, business consulting or corporate finance disciplines to provide a seamless and integrated solution for projects that have a multi-disciplinary dimension.
We focus on a number of key sectors which are active and thriving in Africa, including mergers and acquisitions; agriculture, aquaculture and fishing; commercial real estate; construction and engineering; consumer goods, services and retail; energy and power; oil and gas; financial institutions, services and fintech; business rescue, restructuring and insolvency; government and state-owned entities; healthcare and pharmaceuticals; hospitality and leisure; gambling and regulatory compliance; industrials, manufacturing and trading; transport and logistics; mining and minerals; private equity; and technology and communications.
Areas of practice: The firm’s corporate and commercial offering covers the full spectrum of business legal services, which it delivers through core practice areas and sector teams.
CDH has 11 esteemed core practice areas: corporate and commercial; competition law; dispute resolution; employment law; environmental law; finance & banking; pro bono and human rights; real estate law; tax and exchange control; technology and communications; and trusts and estates. The firm also has dedicated sector teams composed of lawyers from across practice areas, bringing a wealth of experience to key industries.
Whether needing seamless coordination across a number of jurisdictions or delivery in a single location, the firm’s clients can rely on advice that is underpinned by a solid understanding of both local and international considerations.
Diversity: CDH values diversity, respect for the individual and equal opportunity. At CDH, transformation is considered the shared responsibility of everyone in the firm. The firm puts a great deal of energy and time into its ongoing initiatives which aim to achieve CDH’s greater transformation aspirations.
Corporate responsibility: CDH undertakes to look after the communities in which it operates through pro bono and volunteer work. To this end, CDH’s dedicated pro bono and human rights practice facilitates access to justice for the disadvantaged and vulnerable. On 27 January 2022, CDH’s pro bono and human rights practice was awarded several accolades in the ProBono.Org 2021 Awards Ceremony for its commitment to serving vulnerable individuals, organisations, and communities through providing access to justice.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
BEE | Allan Hannie | Allan.Hannie@cdhlegal.com | |
Competition Law | Chris Charter | Chris.Charter@cdhlegal.com | |
Corporate and Commercial | Ian Hayes | Ian.Hayes@cdhlegal.com | |
Dispute Resolution | Rishaban Moodley | Rishaban.Moodley@cdhlegal.com | |
Employment Law | Aadil Patel | Aadil.Patel@cdhlegal.com | |
Energy | Andrew van Niekerk | Andrew.vanNiekerk@cdhlegal.com | |
Environmental | Margo-Ann Werner | Margo-Ann.Werner@cdhlegal.com | |
M and A | Ian Hayes | Ian.Hayes@cdhlegal.com | |
Private Equity | John Gillmer | John.Gillmer@cdhlegal.com | |
Private Equity | David Pinnock | David.Pinnock@cdhlegal.com | |
Projects and Infrastructure | Andrew van Niekerk | Andrew.vanNiekerk@cdhlegal.com | |
Real Estate Law | Muhammad Gattoo | Muhammad.Gattoo@cdhlegal.com | |
Technology and Communications | Simone Dickson | Simone.Dickson@cdhlegal.com | |
Trusts and Estates | Allison Alexander | Allison.Alexander@cdhlegal.com | |
Finance and Banking | Mashudu Junior Mphafudi | mashudu.mphafudi@cdhlegal.com | |
Pro Bono and Human Rights | Jacquie Cassette | Jacquie.Cassette@cdhlegal.com | |
Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fishing | André de Lange | Andre.deLange@cdhlegal.com | |
Construction and Engineering | Clive Rumsey | Clive.Rumsey@cdhlegal.com | |
Consumer Goods, Services and Retail | Jose Jorge | Jose.Jorge@cdhlegal.com | |
Government and State-Owned Entities | Aadil Patel | Aadil.Patel@cdhlegal.com | |
Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals | Susan Meyer | susan.meyer@cdhlegal.com | |
Industrials, Manufacturing and Trade | Jackwell Feris | Jackwell.Feris@cdhlegal.com | |
International Arbitration | Jackwell Feris | Jackwell.Feris@cdhlegal.com | |
Mining and Minerals | Vivien Chaplin | Vivien.Chaplin@cdhlegal.com | |
Oil and Gas | Megan Rodgers | Megan.Rodgers@cdhlegal.com |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
Albert Aukema | Albert is a Competition Law specialist. His practice consists of obtaining merger… | View Profile | |
Gerhard Badenhorst | Gerhard Badenhorst is a Director in our Tax & Exchange Control practice.… | View Profile | |
Timothy Baker | Timothy is a Director in our Dispute Resolution practice and in the… | View Profile | |
Gretchen Barkhuizen-Barbosa | Gretchen Barkhuizen-Barbosa is Director and Head of our Trusts & Estates practice.… | View Profile | |
Eugene Bester | Eugene is a Director in our Dispute Resolution practice with experience in… | View Profile | |
Emil Brincker | Professor Emil Brincker is a Director and Head of our Tax & Exchange… | View Profile | |
Jerome Brink | Jerome Brink is a Director in our Tax & Exchange Control practice.… | View Profile | |
Bronwyn Brown | Bronwyn Brown is a Director in our Real Estate practice. | View Profile | |
Jacquie Cassette | Jacquie is a Director and Head of our Pro Bono & Human… | View Profile | |
Vivien Chaplin | Vivien Chaplin is a Director in our Corporate & Commercial practice and… | View Profile | |
Chris Charter | Chris is a Director and Head of our Competition Law practice. Chris’… | View Profile | |
Mohsina Chenia | Mohsina is an Executive Consultant in our Employment Law practice. She has… | View Profile | |
Clem Daniel | Clem Daniel is a Director of our Corporate & Commercial practice, has… | View Profile | |
Petr Erasmus | Petr Erasmus is a Director in our Tax and Exchange Control practice. | View Profile | |
Jean Ewang | Jean Ewang is Counsel in our Employment Law practice. She focuses on… | View Profile | |
Jackwell Feris | Jackwell Feris is a Director in our Dispute Resolution practice providing dispute… | View Profile | |
Tim Fletcher | Tim Fletcher is the Chairperson of Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr, and a Director… | View Profile | |
Thabile Fuhrmann | Thabile Fuhrmann is a Director in our Dispute Resolution practice and Joint… | View Profile | |
Fatima Gattoo | Fatima Gattoo is a Director in our Real Estate practice. She specialises in… | View Profile | |
Muhammad Gattoo | Muhammad Ziyaad Gattoo is a Director and Head of our Real Estate… | View Profile | |
Andrew Giliam | Andrew Giliam is a Director in our Corporate & Commercial practice. | View Profile | |
Lara Granville | Lara Granville is a Director in our Competition Law practice. She has… | View Profile | |
Ian Hayes | Ian Hayes is a Director and the Head of our Corporate &… | View Profile | |
Dries Hoek | Dries Hoek is a Director in our Tax & Exchange Control practice.… | View Profile | |
Anja Hofmeyr | Anja Hofmeyr is a Director of our Dispute Resolution practice. | View Profile | |
Quintin Honey | Quintin Honey is a Director in our Corporate & Commercial practice. Quintin… | View Profile | |
Willem Jacobs | Willem Jacobs is a Director in our Corporate & Commercial practice. Willem… | View Profile | |
Samantha Kelly | Samantha Kelly is Councel in our Real Estate Law practice. | View Profile | |
Rachel Kelly | Rachel Kelly is a Director in our Corporate & Commercial practice. Rachel… | View Profile | |
Jacqueline King | Jackie is a director in the Finance and Banking practice and is… | View Profile | |
Yaniv Kleitman | Yaniv is a Director in our Corporate & Commercial practice and operates… | View Profile | |
Fiona Leppan | Fiona Leppan is a Director in our Employment Law practice. She has… | View Profile | |
Corne Lewis | Corne is a Director in our Dispute Resolution practice. He has particular… | View Profile | |
Heinrich Louw | Heinrich is a Director in our Tax & Exchange Control practice. He… | View Profile | |
Imraan Mahomed | Imraan Mahomed is a Director in our Employment Law practice. Imraan joined… | View Profile | |
Burton Meyer | Burton is a Director of our Dispute Resolution practice specialising in commercial… | View Profile | |
Rishaban Moodley | Rishaban Moodley is a Director in our Dispute Resolution practice focusing on… | View Profile | |
Mongezi Mpahlwa | Mongezi Mpahlwa is a Director in our Dispute Resolution practice. Mongezi has… | View Profile | |
Mashudu Mphafudi | Mashudu Mphafudi is Director and Head of our Finance & Banking practice.… | View Profile | |
Wayne Murray | Wayne Murray is a Director in our Corporate & Commercial practice. Wayne has… | View Profile | |
Phetheni Nkuna | Phetheni Nkuna is a Director in our Employment Law practice. She focuses… | View Profile | |
Howmera Parak | Howmera Parak is a Director in our Tax & Exchange Control practice… | View Profile | |
Aadil Patel | Aadil Patel is the Head of our Employment Law practice. A thought… | View Profile | |
Professor Hugo Pienaar | Professor Hugo Pienaar is a Director in our Employment Law practice and… | View Profile | |
David Pinnock | David Pinnock is a Director in our Corporate & Commercial practice and… | View Profile | |
Thabang Rapuleng | Thabang Rapuleng is a Director in our Employment Law practice. He has… | View Profile | |
Jess Reid | Jess Reid is a Director in our Corporate & Commercial practice. | View Profile | |
Allan Reid | Allan Reid is a Director in our Corporate & Commercial practice. He… | View Profile | |
Clive Rumsey | Clive Rumsey is a Director in our Dispute Resolution practice. Clive is… | View Profile | |
Muriel Serfontein | Muriel is a Director in our Real Estate practice. | View Profile | |
Timothy Smit | Timothy (Tim) Smit is a Director in our Dispute Resolution practice and… | View Profile | |
Ludwig Smith | Ludwig is a Director in our Corporate and Commercial practice. He advises… | View Profile | |
Stephan Spamer | Stephan Spamer in a Director in our Tax & Exchange Control practice. | View Profile | |
Tamarin Tosen | Tamarin Tosen is a Director in our Corporate & Commercial practice. Tamarin… | View Profile | |
Roxanna Valayathum | Roxanna is a Director in our Corporate & Commercial practice. Roxanna specialises… | View Profile | |
John Webber | John Webber is a Director of our Real Estate practice. He specialises… | View Profile | |
Joe Whittle | Joe Whittle is a Director in our Dispute Resolution practice and a… | View Profile | |
Deon Wilken | Deon Wilken is a Director in our Finance & Banking practice, He… | View Profile | |
Brent Williams | Brent Williams has been the Chief Executive Officer/Managing Partner of Cliffe Dekker… | View Profile | |
Andries le Grange | Andries le Grange is a Director in our Competition practice. In addition… | View Profile | |
Andrew van Niekerk | Andrew van Niekerk is a Director in our Corporate & Commercial practice,… | View Profile | |
Roux van der Merwe | Roux is a Director in our Corporate & Commercial practice. His areas… | View Profile |
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Brent Williams : CEO / Managing Partner Tim Fletcher : Chairperson Sammy Ndolo : Managing Partner - KenyaCliffe Dekker Hofmeyr > Firm Profile
Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr (CDH) is a full-service law firm – with an extensive reach across Africa – consisting of more than 260 lawyers and a track record spanning over 170 years.
Offering across the African continent: CDH’s Africa practice leverages resources and expertise of leading business law firms across the continent, tapping into a wealth of experience, particularly when it comes to acting for governments, state agencies and multinational organisations. Our Nairobi office, Kieti Law LLP, is a leading Kenyan law firm that provides personalised legal services of the highest quality in key specialist areas of practice. Our Africa practice brings together the resources and expertise of leading business law firms across the continent that have direct experience acting for governments, state agencies and multinational organisations. This combined experience across the continent produces an extensive African capability. We also partner with other professional disciplines such as audit, business consulting or corporate finance disciplines to provide a seamless and integrated solution for projects that have a multi-disciplinary dimension.
We focus on a number of key sectors which are active and thriving in Africa, including mergers and acquisitions; agriculture, aquaculture and fishing; commercial real estate; construction and engineering; consumer goods, services and retail; energy and power; oil and gas; financial institutions, services and fintech; business rescue, restructuring and insolvency; government and state-owned entities; healthcare and pharmaceuticals; hospitality and leisure; gambling and regulatory compliance; industrials, manufacturing and trading; transport and logistics; mining and minerals; private equity; and technology and communications.
Areas of practice: The firm’s corporate and commercial offering covers the full spectrum of business legal services, which it delivers through core practice areas and sector teams.
CDH has 11 esteemed core practice areas: corporate and commercial; competition law; dispute resolution; employment law; environmental law; finance & banking; pro bono and human rights; real estate law; tax and exchange control; technology and communications; and trusts and estates. The firm also has dedicated sector teams composed of lawyers from across practice areas, bringing a wealth of experience to key industries.
Whether needing seamless coordination across a number of jurisdictions or delivery in a single location, the firm’s clients can rely on advice that is underpinned by a solid understanding of both local and international considerations.
Diversity: CDH values diversity, respect for the individual and equal opportunity. At CDH, transformation is considered the shared responsibility of everyone in the firm. The firm puts a great deal of energy and time into its ongoing initiatives which aim to achieve CDH’s greater transformation aspirations.
Corporate responsibility: CDH undertakes to look after the communities in which it operates through pro bono and volunteer work. To this end, CDH’s dedicated pro bono and human rights practice facilitates access to justice for the disadvantaged and vulnerable. On 27 January 2022, CDH’s pro bono and human rights practice was awarded several accolades in the ProBono.Org 2021 Awards Ceremony for its commitment to serving vulnerable individuals, organisations, and communities through providing access to justice.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Competition Law | Chris Charter | Chris.Charter@cdhlegal.com | |
Corporate and commercial, and Mergers and acquisitions | Ian Hayes | ian.hayes@cdhlegal.com | |
Dispute Resolution | Rishaban Moodley | Rishaban.Moodley@cdhlegal.com | |
Employment Law | Aadil Patel | Aadil.Patel@cdhlegal.com | |
Finance and Banking | Mashudu Mphafudi | mashudu.mphafudi@cdhlegal.com | |
Real Estate | Muhammad Gattoo | Muhammad.Gattoo@cdhlegal.com | |
Tax and Exchange Control | Emil Brincker | Emil.Brincker@cdhlegal.com | |
Technology, media and telecommunications | Simone Dickson | Simone.Dickson@cdhlegal.com | |
Pro Bono and Human Rights | Jacquie Cassette | Jacquie.Cassette@cdhlegal.com | |
Trusts and Estates | Allison Alexander | Allison.Alexander@cdhlegal.com | |
BEE | Allan Hannie | Allan.Hannie@cdhlegal.com | |
Energy | Andrew van Niekerk | Andrew.vanNiekerk@cdhlegal.com | |
Languages
Afrikaans EnglishOther
Contact : Brent Williams (CEO) Other offices : Nairobi Other offices : Cape Town Other offices : StellenboschDiversity/Community
CDH acknowledges that South Africa’s apartheid and gender discrimination legacy has adversely impacted on the legal profession and has inhibited access to both the profession and legal services.
We face the challenge of transformation and empowerment head on. We are a truly South African law firm where transformation is about living our values and principles.
We aspire to be a firm:
- whose partners and professional and support employees are representative of the racial, gender, cultural and religious diversity of the people of South Africa;
- where men and women at all levels within the firm enjoy equal opportunities and treatment in relation to access to work, recruitment, promotion and remuneration; and
- that creates a working environment that is sensitive to the particular challenges faced by previously marginalised groups such as women and black people.
Our values
We connect our people, our clients and our communities through our values and are committed to responsible stewardship. We value diversity and respect for the individual. We believe in teamwork for the good of the firm and our clients.
We are an employer of choice who believes in the development of our people that helps them achieve professional and personal fulfilment. We believe client satisfaction is at the heart of our business and we strive to achieve excellence in everything we do for them.
We are committed to long-term relationships with our clients that are based on openness, honesty and integrity. We believe in living our core values and investing in our communities.
Pro Bono and Human Rights practice
Our dedicated Pro Bono and Human Rights practice was launched as a commitment to strengthening the firm’s pro bono services. The practice assists indigent and disadvantaged people to access justice and forwards human rights and constitutionalism through public interest work. It also focuses on creating partnerships and nurturing relationships with NGO’s, non-profit organisations, and other appropriate institutions on a pro bono basis, as well as undertaking substantive project work.
Every lawyer in the firm is called on to make a contribution, which offers them the opportunity individually to fulfil their social responsibility commitments. Our young lawyers and candidate attorneys gain invaluable experience and perspective through exposure to a wide range of pro bono and human rights matters.
During the 2017 year the Pro Bono Practice assisted many of its clients resolve long arduous legal battles, with great positive impact, made significant progress in furthering the cause of others, partnered in exciting and innovative human rights initiatives, hosted high profile guests, and assisted other Practice areas in carrying out important and meaningful pro bono work. Our firm donated in excess of 6,500 hours and R16 million to deserving individuals and organisations. In recognition of our contribution and those of others in the firm who have given generously of their time and expertise, we are proud to report that the firm won three awards during the 2017 year for its pro bono contributions and in so doing has cemented its reputation as one of the leading contributors to pro bono amongst law firms across the country.
- Commercial, corporate and M&A
- Dispute resolution
- Employment
- Real estate
- Tax
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Banking and finance
- Competition
- Construction
- Investment funds
- Mining
- Projects and infrastructure
Firm Rankings
- Kenya > Commercial, corporate and M&A