Banks, private equity sponsors and corporates rely on Clifford Chance for assistance in arranging novel acquisition and corporate facilities, in addition to assisting with amendments to existing lines of credit. The team works with its finance colleagues across the firm’s network to oversee the provision of cross-border facilities. The team is headed by Bettina Steinhauer, an acquisition finance expert who also assists her clients in the fields of infrastructure and real estate financing and oversees restructuring efforts. Simon Reitz is instructed by PE sponsors and debt funds requiring financing for public-to-private deals and other syndicated facilities, while Christoph Nensa is particularly well versed in structured finance, including high yield facilities.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Simon Reitz approaches all deals with a calm and practical head, even in the most challenging of circumstances. His market knowledge and pragmatism is second to none and he always strive to get deals over the line. He is a pleasure to work with and approaches everything with good humour. Christoph Nensa is a pragmatic and experienced lawyer with extensive market knowledge. He knows how to get deals done and is always a pleasure to work with.'
- 'Clifford Chance demonstrates an exceptional degree of professionalism, deep expertise in international laws, and a pro-active approach throughout the entire collaboration.'
- 'Each partner, as well as each counsel/associate, brings a high level of expertise and pushes to bring a transaction forward. From the initial consultation to the final execution, their communication was clear, timely, and always solution-oriented. I would like to specifically mention Simon Reitz, who led multiple transactions with a remarkable dedication and professionalism which was pivotal for a successful transaction process.'
- 'Strong team, the whole team is very approachable, highly responsive, focused and highly competent. Perfect amalgamation of assessment, advice, guidance and negotiation skills. No lengthy discussions, highly efficient.'
- 'Broad and deep legal experience and knowledge, paired with deep industry understanding and the willingness and ability to really understand the client's aspirations, needs, and restrictions.'
- 'Fantastic team that always delivers as required. Excellent skills and market knowledge across the board. They are always a delight to work with.'
Key clients
- Bank of America
- Borsig GmbH
- Ardian
- BNP Paribas
- Deutsche Bank
- Landesbank Hessen-Thüringen Girozentrale
- UniCredit
- MiddleGround Capital
- Sunfire
- Egeria
- Commerzbank
- Credit Agricole
- SEB
- Iqony
- DZ BANK
- BlackRock
- ING
- Bank für Tirol und Vorarlberg
- Deutsche Glasfaser Group
- HSBC
Work highlights
Advised MiddleGround Capital on the credit financing for its intended voluntary public takeover offer for all outstanding shares of Stemmer Imaging AG.
Advised a syndicate comprising BNP Paribas, Deutsche Bank, Landesbank Hessen-Thüringen Girozentrale and UniCredit Bank GmbH on the new bank/bond financing of the Fressnapf Group.
Advising debt funds managed by Berenberg on financing the acquisition of vitroconnect by Oakley Capital.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Bettina Steinhauer
Other key lawyers
Simon Reitz; Christoph Nensa; Steffen Schellschmidt