David Walker > Latham & Watkins > London, England > Lawyer Profile

Latham & Watkins‘ diverse and multi-specialist PE practice boasts an impressive list of market-leading financial sponsors and considerable sector coverage. Over the past year, the firm has handled a significant flow of UK take-privates, cross-border M&A, carve-outs, and disposals – many within the sports, fintech and life sciences spaces. Practice head Tom Evans is a highly proficient adviser who works with funds and financial investors across M&A, minority investments and disposals. Fellow co-head Thomas Forschbach is particularly well-regarded for his cross-border leveraged buyout work and is a key port-of-call to a host of international PE outfits. Mike Bond, a close adviser to Onex Partners, handles a number of consequential UK and European deals, while Paul Dolman, who possesses ‘great deal management skills’, has a strong track record in complex cross-border public to privates, restructurings, and leveraged acquisitions. Noted for his wide-ranging coverage, Kem Ihenacho handles international PE transactions for some of the firm’s largest global investment firm clients. David Walker ‘has a wealth of experience to bring to bear’ across a number of transactions, and Farah O’Brien’s tech and life sciences expertise ensures she’s sought out by an array of large and mid-cap sponsors. Linzi Thomas is a further name for cross-border M&A and PE work, while Huw Thomas is noted by clients as a ‘balanced and considerate thinker’. Katie Peek has increasingly taken a leading role advising premium PE houses and infrastructure funds on multi-billion dollar disposals and exits. Mateja Maher and Adrian Grocock joined from Sidley Austin LLP in August 2023, further bolstering the team’s investment fund capabilities.