Clifford Chance LLP advises a broad client base across the oil and gas sector, including oil majors, financial institutions and independents, offering expertise across corporate, finance and disputes work. Particularly well-versed in cross-border transactions, joint ventures and strategic advisory, the team advises clients on matters concerning conventional and alternative energy assets. Steven Fox, who co-heads the team, specialises in corporate and finance transactions across the upstream oil and gas sector and energy transition, advising on M&A, joint ventures and acquisitions and disposals globally and on the UK Continental Shelf. Alex Panayides, also co-leading the practice, advises multinationals and private equity clients on complex, cross-border matters. Craig Nethercott brings deep project finance experience across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia. Russell Wells, who serves as global co-head of energy, advises on major transactions and client strategy worldwide.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
'Strong commercial awareness, deep deal experience, and an ability to manage complex, cross-border transactions with precision and assurance.'
'What truly differentiates them is their hands-on, partner-driven approach and their clear grasp of our strategic objectives. They go beyond traditional legal advice—offering foresight, tailored guidance, and seamless execution.'
'Consistently stand out for delivering pragmatic, business-oriented solutions that make a real impact.’
‘Technically excellent, deep market knowledge, genuine sector specialists. Team plays the role of "trusted advisor" brilliantly: no ego, not looking for the spotlight, just there to provide first rate advice when needed.’
'Strong experience across project, M&A and finance for oil & gas matters, which means they have a better understanding of risk and value for complex matters.'
‘Craig Nethercott has a commercial, common-sense approach combined with technical excellence and spades of experience.’
'Impressive insights from John Wilkins.'
'Incredible availability and dedication from Keith Hauck across multiple projects.'
Key clients
- Shell
- TotalEnergies
- Equinor
- Engie
- Harbour Energy
- Sinopec
- Baker Hughes
- SOCAR
- Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC)
- Midwestern Oil & Gas Company
- Gunvor
- Eroton
- Edison
- Genser Energy
Work highlights
Advised Shell on the disposal of its Nigerian onshore subsidiary.
Advised Harbour on its acquisition of substantially all of Wintershall Dea's upstream assets in Norway, Germany, Denmark, Argentina, Mexico, Egypt, Libya and Algeria as well as its CO2 Capture and Storage licences in Europe.
Advised Eni S.p.A. on its strategic business combination with Ithaca Energy plc.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Steven Fox; Alex Panayides
Other key lawyers
Craig Nethercott; Russell Wells; John Wilkins; Keith Hauck