Often advising borrowers on private equity transactions, Kirkland & Ellis LLP’s key strengths lie in debtor-in-possession financing, debt restructuring, and syndicated finance transactions. Notably, the firm is also a key port of call for credit funds, infrastructure funds, and secondary funds on subscription facilities. Operating out of New York, Melissa Hutson is highly proficient in acquisition financings, recapitalizations and debt restructuring. Hutson is also experienced in debt facilities, debt commitments, and bridge loan financing. Jason Kanner’s broad caseload encompasses liability management transactions, restructuring, as well as first and second-lien financings, while David Nemecek splits his time between Dallas and New York. Nemecek is a strong choice for equity sponsors, portfolio companies, hedge funds, asset managers, and alternative capital sources on an array of financing transactions. Located in Chicago, Michelle Kilkenney is noted for her capabilities in senior, mezzanine, and subordinated debt transactions, while New York-based Jay Ptashek handles capital structure management matters. Other key members of the practice include Adam Shapiro, and San Francisco-based Sonali Jindal.
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Profile

Profile

Position

Melissa Hutson is a finance partner in Kirkland’s New York office and a member of the Firm’s Executive Committee. Melissa’s practice focuses on syndicated debt facilities, debt commitments and bridge loan financings for leveraged acquisitions by private equity firms, their portfolio companies and public and private companies. She also advises clients on a broad range of other secured lending and financing transactions, including debt restructurings.

Melissa advises private equity sponsors, borrowers and lenders in the structuring, negotiation and documentation of debt financing transactions. She has substantial experience in acquisition financings, recapitalizations and debt restructuring.

Education

University of Virginia School of Law, J.D., 2001; University of Virginia, B.A., with high honors, 1998.

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Key clients

  • Advent International
  • American Securities
  • Apax Partners
  • Bain Capital
  • Blackstone
  • Vista
  • Capvest
  • Civitas Resources
  • CoreWeave
  • CyrusOne
  • Equinox Group
  • Francisco Partners
  • Global Medical Response
  • GTCR
  • HGGC
  • KKR
  • L Catterton
  • Patient Square Capital
  • The Jordan Company
  • Thoma Bravo
  • Vista Equity Partners