Linklaters Strengthens U.S. Presence with Key Hires from A&O Shearman’s Finance Team
Linklaters Expands U.S. Finance Team with Key Hires from A&O Shearman
In a significant strategic move, London-based law firm Linklaters has welcomed a high-profile group of finance attorneys from competitor A&O Shearman. The acquisition strengthens Linklaters' presence in the United States, underscoring its commitment to expand and deepen its offerings in the region’s competitive legal market.
Leading Finance Experts Join Linklaters
"We are thrilled to welcome David, John, Derek, and Dan to our team. Their expertise will further strengthen our U.S. finance division," Linklaters stated in a recent press release.
A&O Shearman’s Transatlantic Merger and Its Impact on the U.S. Legal Market
Linklaters’ expansion efforts follow the recently completed merger between Allen & Overy and Shearman & Sterling, which resulted in the formation of A&O Shearman on May 1. This merger signals the continued commitment of U.K.-based firms to strengthen their foothold in the U.S., where competitive hires and office expansions have become an industry trend. The new partners at Linklaters are expected to play a critical role in advancing the firm’s goals in this evolving legal landscape.
Earlier in the year, Linklaters also attracted a team of six mergers and acquisitions lawyers from Shearman & Sterling, led by George Casey, Shearman’s former global managing partner and corporate group leader. Casey now serves as Linklaters' global chairman of corporate. Former Shearman partner Heiko Schiwek, another noteworthy addition, leads Linklaters' chemicals sector globally.
Strategic U.S. Expansion: A Linklaters Priority
The United States represents a significant growth opportunity for Linklaters. In a recent statement, Aedamar Comiskey, senior partner and chair of the firm, emphasized the importance of the U.S. expansion. "Adding top legal talent in the United States remains a core priority for us," Comiskey said. The firm has seen impressive growth in its U.S. revenues, reporting a 24% increase earlier this year—a clear indicator of the success of its U.S. expansion initiatives.
Recent High-Profile Additions at Linklaters
In addition to the latest finance team hires, Linklaters has welcomed several other distinguished attorneys in the U.S. this year. Joseph Profaizer, previously with Paul Hastings, joined the firm as global co-head of international arbitration earlier this month. Meanwhile, Michael Torkin, from Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, took on the role of head of U.S. capital solutions and special situations, further boosting Linklaters' expertise in specialized practice areas.
A&O Shearman's Response
An A&O Shearman spokesperson extended well-wishes to the departing attorneys, marking a respectful conclusion to their tenure at the firm. Each attorney brings a unique specialization, making them valuable additions to Linklaters' U.S. finance division. David Lucking, a previous candidate for managing partner at A&O Shearman, served as co-head of global finance markets, while John Hwang and Derek Poon were leaders in the U.S. asset finance and securitization sector.
With these latest moves, Linklaters reinforces its commitment to expanding its influence across the Atlantic. It adds industry leaders to its roster as it competes with top U.S. firms for a share of the growing American market.
