Law firm Baker & McKenzie has appointed London-based partner Simon Hughes as chair of the global private equity group.
Hughes (pictured) will be responsible for co-ordinating strategy for a group that acts for a wide range of sponsors, portfolio companies and management teams around the world and across all sectors.
The global private equity group comprises nearly 300 private equity lawyers across EMEA, North America, Latin America and Asia Pacific.
Hughes says: “This is an exciting time to be taking on this role. The private equity industry has been going through a period of significant change globally. We want to be in the very best position possible to help our clients navigate through those changes and to capitalise on the opportunities available to them. In an environment in which traditional markets for private equity investment continue to be more challenged in terms of achieving growth, private equity funds are increasingly looking for enhanced returns in other markets. Being able to help shape our strategy for helping our clients access those markets, while being able to draw on an unrivalled global platform, makes this a great opportunity.”
Hughes has more than 20 years experience at Baker & McKenzie. He has been European head of private equity since 2006. His primary focus is on leveraged buyouts, equity investments and exit transactions for UK and international sponsors and management teams. He also has significant experience in the telecoms and healthcare sectors.
