Top 10 Masters of Investment Funds: UK’s Influential Private Equity Lawyers, 2023

The UK Investment Funds: Private Equity law sector continues to thrive, with a number of noteworthy practitioners offering their exceptional expertise in various areas. These specialists, adept in handling multi-billion-pound fund launches, private equity, infrastructure fund formation and more, form the backbone of this intriguing and highly competitive industry. This review offers an incisive look at these distinguished lawyers who have carved a niche for themselves in this field.

From leading practitioners to heads of private funds teams, the field is varied and covers a wide assortment of fund-related matters. Working for reputable law firms, these practitioners deliver exceptional services that underline their profound understanding of the intricate complexities this industry presents.

The importance of their expertise cannot be underestimated, as they routinely handle high-value transactions, help in the formation of substantial international fund structures, and lend their knowledge to a variety of sponsors as well as investors. Here are some of the more notable figures in this invigorating field:

Jason Glover

Jason Glover of Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP is widely recognized as the crème de la crème in matters relating to multi-billion-pound fund launches. His reputation is second to none in the private equity industry and has positioned him as a go-to expert for significant European buyout funds.

Ed Hall

Ed Hall of Goodwin demonstrates his proficiency in private equity and infrastructure fund formation. High-value secondary transactions are also within his array of expertise.

Gus Black

Gus Black of Dechert LLP is renowned for his involvement in a myriad of private funds, with special focus on private equity and credit funds. Alongside that, his portfolio includes fund restructuring procedures, where he works with top-tier clients.

John Daghlian

John Daghlian of Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld equally straddles roles as adviser to both fund sponsors and investors, particularly in relation to private equity fund formation. Additionally, he has demonstrated deep familiarity with fund portfolio restructuring.

Ed Gander

Ed Gander of Weil, Gotshal & Manges (London) LLP heads the firm’s London private funds team. Known for his work with leading asset management groups on international private equity fundraisings, Gander’s credentials stand out in the industry.

Andrew Shore

Andrew Shore of Kirkland & Ellis International LLP commands an impressive advisory role, working with private equity sponsors on fundraisings and secondary transactions. He also demonstrates his expertise in co-investment and carried interest matters.

Alex Amos

Alex Amos of Macfarlanes LLP is distinguished for his work in private equity and credit fund formations for top European managers. Secondary market transactions also constitute a key part of his practice.

Nick Benson

Nick Benson of Latham & Watkins utilizes his expertise in coordinating large-scale international fund formation and structuring mandates for sponsors.

Richard Watkins

Richard Watkins of Kirkland & Ellis International LLP is lauded for his skill in the formation of large-cap private equity funds. His considerable prowess has led leading international sponsors to seek his counsel.

Eliska Macnerova

Eliska Macnerova of Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP maintains a diverse practice, advising both startup and well-established investment managers, as well as institutional investors.