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