Taking a ‘commercial approach to transactions,’ the corporate practice at Payne Hicks Beach LLP is well-equipped to handle high-profile cross-border M&A with a focus on the media and entertainment sector. Its multi-jurisdictional capabilities, alongside its expertise in M&A on both the buy and sell-side, joint ventures, and investments and divestments, continue to attract new clients to its roster. Department co-head Max Baird-Smith concentrates on advising UHNW individuals and private businesses on international acquisitions and sales, while fellow co-lead Howard Taylor predominantly acts for investors and investee companies. Jonathan Gatward also co-leads the group and focuses on cross-border transactions in IP-rich sectors. Isobel Symonds is another key contact in the team.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The partner who impressed me with the management buyout exercise was Jonathan Gatward.’
- ‘The corporate team takes a commercial approach to transactions and is user friendly.’
Key clients
- Bonnier Books UK Group Holdings Limited
- Elite Hotels (Rotherwick) Limited
Practice head
Max Baird-Smith; Howard Taylor; Jonathan Gatward
Other key lawyers
Isobel Symonds
