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.’
‘Max Baird-Smith, Jonathan Gatward, and Howard Taylor stand out.’
Key clients
- Bonnier Books UK Group Holdings Limited
- Elite Hotels (Rotherwick) Limited
- Pineapple Dance Studios
- IIAA Limited
- Harlequin Design (London) Limited
Practice head
Max Baird-Smith; Howard Taylor; Jonathan Gatward
Other key lawyers
Isobel Symonds