Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr‘s ’exceptional‘ corporate and commercial team is ’extremely efficient‘, with ’deep knowledge of deals structuring‘ and ’extensive experience in M&A‘. Ian Hayes, who heads up the practice, is highly regarded for his expertise in advising on the full range of commercial and corporate matters, often for clients in the retail, telecoms, and mining sectors. Willem Jacobs is sought after for his excellent track record in M&A, and is well versed in handling transactions with cross-border elements. Jaco Meyer’s workload includes assisting with the acquisitions and disposals of companies and businesses in South Africa. Roxanna Valayathum garners praise for her ‘exceptional responsiveness and commitment’. Shameegh Allen brings experience in corporate restructurings. Justine Krige left the firm in October 2023.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
- Profile
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team is very detail-oriented and gives sound legal advice. Their turnaround time is always impressive.’
‘Shameegh Allen is a stand-out lawyer, very down to earth, and really knows his stuff.'
‘The M&A team stands out due to its practical, commercial approach to complex M&A transactions. The firm is able to seamlessly draw from different areas of practice to offer a complete advisory service for complex transactions. They are pragmatic and responsive.'
‘The team is easy to work with, commercial and reasonable in negotiation, and highly competent and accurate in their legal drafting.’
‘Andrew Giliam - an excellent person and brilliant lawyer, Andrew is hard working and turns round documents with incredible efficiency and accuracy.'
‘The practice stands out for its ability to handle complex matters with speed and acumen.'
'Vivien Chaplin is an expert in the legal field and a top performer.'
‘An experienced M&A team.'
Key clients
- ABSA Group
- Accenture
- AFGRI Holdings
- Africa Fruit Holdings
- Africa Oil
- African Clean Energy Developments
- African Rainbow Capital Investments
- Alaris Holdings
- Aloecap Private Equity Investments
- Ampath
Work highlights
Advised Sun International on its proposed ZAR 3.2 billion acquisition of Peermont Holdings.
Advised Clientèle and Telesure Investment Holdings on Clientèle's acquisition of 1Life Insurance and Telesure's acquisition of a 26% stake in Clientèle.
Lawyers
Hall of fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
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
Ian Hayes
Other key lawyers
Willem Jacobs; Vivien Chaplin; Jaco Meyer; Roxanna Valayathum; Dane Kruger; André de Lange; Peter Hesseling; Anita Moolman; Andrew Giliam; Shameegh Allen; Storm Arends