The London office of Baker Botts (UK) LLP is highly regarded for the financing and refinancing of large projects across Africa and the Middle East. Practice head Stuart McIntyre is a key adviser on energy and infrastructure project development, as is Alex Kerr. McIntyre, who ‘excels in navigating complex financial transactions and regulatory landscapes’, and Nicholas Jones acted for a major development finance institution on a $35m loan to a state-owned bank in Uzbekistan. TMT specialist Stuart Blythe has been assisting a leading African digital connectivity and infrastructure provider on a $30m equity investment. Projects expert Mark Rowley is handling a $42bn natural gas and LNG development in Tanzania. Rob Butler left the firm in July 2024. Departures in 2023 include Shashank Krishna and Nick Collins. Jennifer Rees and Patrick Lyons joined the practice from Dechert in May 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Baker Botts has extensive experience in emerging markets, particularly in advising on the privatisation of state-owned enterprises and banks. Baker Botts has played a crucial role in assisting emerging markets governments with their ambitious economic reforms aimed at transitioning to a more market-oriented economy.'
'Specifically, Baker Botts has been involved in several high-profile transactions, providing legal and regulatory advice on the privatisation of major state-owned banks. This includes conducting due diligence, structuring deals, navigating complex regulatory environments, and ensuring compliance.’
‘At Baker Botts LLP, the individuals I work with stand out for their expertise, commitment, and collaborative approach. Stuart McIntyre excels in navigating complex financial transactions and regulatory landscapes, offering innovative solutions and clear communication.'
'Nicholas Jones is known for his meticulous attention to detail and client-centric focus, providing practical and strategic insights. Jennifer O'Donoghue's leadership and corporate law expertise show through in her efficient project management. Together, they form a team that delivers high-impact results with professionalism and integrity. ’
‘Baker Botts has been our legal partner for almost two decades, providing a very quality service and securing our position in a wide range of legal practice.’
‘Partner Alex Kerr and special counsel Nicholas Jones are both exceptionally professional, safeguarding the legal position of the client. Always meeting deadlines, high quality assurance, good negotiation tactics to support client's position.’
‘Mark Rowley, Alex Kerr and Chris Caulfield - all exceptionally knowledgeable in their areas of expertise.’
‘Dealing with the Baker Botts team is always a pleasure. They are not only nice people to work with but are understanding of our complex business environment and provide the company with quality advice at all times. ’
Key clients
- Air Products & Chemicals, Inc.
- Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation
- West Indian Ocean Cable Company
- Gulfsands Petroleum
- International Finance Corporation (IFC)
- European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)
- Formula One
- Quantum Power
- McDermott
- Bristow Group
Work highlights
Advising Air Products, in relation to all aspects of the development and financing of the USD 8.4 billion NEOM Green Hydrogen Project in Saudi Arabia.
Advising Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation, Tanzania’s state oil company, in relation to the development of a new USD 42 billion LNG facility.
Advised IFC on its pre-privatisation convertible and non-convertible loans to two state owned banks in Uzbekistan, with an aggregate loan value of USD 55 million for Ipoteka-bank and an aggregate loan value of USD 115 million for Uzpromstroybank.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
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
Stuart McIntyre
Other key lawyers
Alex Kerr; Nicholas Jones; Stuart Blythe; Mark Rowley; Chris Caulfield; Jennifer O'Donoghue; Patrick Lyons; Jennifer Rees