David Silver is to succeed John Fordham as Head of European Investment Banking (EUIB) at Baird, an employee-owned, international investment banking, private equity, wealth, and asset management firm. Fordham will transition to the newly created position of Chairman of Baird International.
Silver will oversee all of EUIB in addition to his current role leading the firm’s Business Services banking practice in Europe. Fordham will work across the firm, further developing the firm’s presence globally, extending Baird’s platform to additional international clients and exploring opportunities in new geographies across the globe.
The leadership changes, which will take full effect January 1, 2012, are a part of Baird’s broader efforts to continue its mission to be the premier middle market M&A and corporate finance adviser to private equity firms, corporates and entrepreneurs within its chosen sectors.
Baird has made significant investments to its Investment Banking business over the past few years, doubling the number of bankers and locations since 2005 to include offices in new countries such as China. With the additional expertise and reach, the firm’s global M&A advisory business has seen tremendous growth. Since 2005, Baird has served as an advisor on 103 cross border/international M&A deals – 36% of Baird’s total M&A deals in that time.
“Baird’s European banking team has been a key contributor to the business’ overall growth and success over the past several years, giving us tremendous momentum,” said Steve Booth, Co-Head of Global Equity Capital Markets and Director of Baird Investment Banking. “David’s leadership will allow us to continue that growth and John’s new role will help us extend our platform to other areas of the globe.”
In 2010, the number of Baird M&A deals was up more than 170 per cent compared to the prior year, with a total value of more than $26 billion. 2011 YTD, Baird has completed 48 M&A transactions, on its way to surpassing the 51 deals completed in 2010.
“Baird’s ability to access global buyers and sellers has been a key component of our success,” says Booth. “By leveraging our single, global P&L and using other techniques to foster a high level of teamwork and innovation, we’ve achieved great outcomes for our clients and positioned the firm very well for the future.”
