Clifford Chance LLP‘s London high yield practice has established a strong position in the European market under Michael Dakin’s leadership, focusing on high-value, regularly multijurisdictional transactions. The team advises both corporate issuers and underwriters, acting for major financial institutions in bookrunner and initial purchaser roles. Key partners include Jill Concannon, who has extensive experience in European bond offerings with particular strength in the retail sector and a reputation for commercial pragmatism. Drew Rundus regularly handles high-yield bonds alongside revolving credit facilities and is valued by clients for his responsive, practical approach. A recent arrival from the Singapore office, Johannes Juette contributes DCM and ECM expertise to the high-yield offering.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Clifford Chance’s high yield and broader finance team distinguishes itself through its exceptional ability to seamlessly navigate complex cross-border transactions and to act as a true extension of its client’s internal team. In our experience, what sets this team apart is its deep market insight, versatility across financing products, and an unwavering commitment to collaborative problem-solving.'
- 'Their ability to bring global experience to bear in complex legal environments, while remaining agile and focused on execution, is particularly impressive.'
- 'Clifford Chance lawyers have consistently demonstrated a clear understanding of our commercial objectives and have earned their position as trusted advisors.'
- 'Clifford Chance has also demonstrated innovation in its approach to team collaboration. We have seen strong alignment between partners and associates, ensuring continuity and quality across all levels.'
‘The individuals we’ve worked with at Clifford Chance stand out for their professionalism, availability, and deep subject matter expertise. Drew Rundus in particular has played a central role, offering commercial insight, calm guidance under pressure, and strategic leadership throughout several landmark transactions for our group.'
- 'Clifford Chance’s lawyers consistently add value by anticipating issues before they arise, offering practical solutions, and driving the transaction forward without unnecessary friction. They are not only legal technicians but true business partners, and this is what differentiates them from many peers in the market.’
‘Great team and appropriately staffed by excellent lawyers at all levels. Always a pleasure to work with.'
‘Michael Dakin is typically our "go to" for high-yield deals. Jill Concannon is also a great partner. In terms of senior associates, Yash Ranade is exceptional.’
'I mostly value their client and practical approach when negotiating and/or drafting documentation, availability and prompt responses to any issue and/or matter, politeness in communication (also with the counterparties), and assistance to the client.'
Key clients
- Azelis
- Czechoslovak Group
- Magellan Capital
- MAHLE
- Telekom Srbija
- Cinven
- Citigroup
- Goldman Sachs
- J.P. Morgan
- BofA Securities
- Credit Agricole
- BNP Paribas
- Deutsche Bank
- ING
- Standard Chartered
Work highlights
Advised Telekom Srbija on its debut international capital markets issuance of U.S.$900 million of high yield bonds, the first high yield bond issued by any Serbia-headquartered company to international investors.
Advised Citigroup, ING and Standard Chartered as the underwriters on the debut high yield bond issuance by mid-life oil and gas assets operator and redeveloper Trident Energy.
Advised BNP Paribas, Bank of America, Credit Agricole and the other underwriters on French retailer BUT Conforama's €250.0 million bond issuance and the upsize of its revolving credit facility.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Michael Dakin
Other key lawyers
Jill Concannon; Drew Rundus; Johannes Juette; Michael Dakin; Yash Ranade