In a significant move within the City's legal sector, Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF) has bolstered its finance team by hiring a key partner from a rival firm. The international law firm has successfully recruited Daniel Kramer, a specialist in leveraged finance, from Mayer Brown's London office.
Strategic Hire for Herbert Smith Freehills
The recruitment of Daniel Kramer represents a strategic addition to Herbert Smith Freehills' finance and projects practice group. Kramer is recognised for his expertise in advising on leveraged buyouts, acquisition finance, and complex refinancings. His practice focuses on serving both private equity sponsors and leading financial institutions, a client base highly sought after in the competitive London market.
This hire directly strengthens HSF's capability in the leveraged finance arena, an area of law that facilitates major corporate acquisitions and investments. Kramer officially made the move to Herbert Smith Freehills on 1 July 2024, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a substantial portfolio of client relationships.
Background and Career Move
Daniel Kramer built his career at Mayer Brown, where he spent over 13 years progressing to the partnership. His deep-rooted experience at the firm makes his departure a notable loss for Mayer Brown's leveraged finance offering in London. The move underscores the ongoing competition among top-tier law firms to attract and retain leading legal talent with specific sector expertise.
For Herbert Smith Freehills, the acquisition of a partner of Kramer's calibre is a clear statement of intent. It signals the firm's commitment to expanding and deepening its finance practice, particularly in areas driven by private equity activity. The firm's global platform is likely to provide Kramer with a broad canvas to develop his practice further.
Implications for the London Legal Landscape
Partner moves between major law firms are a constant feature of the London legal scene, often reflecting shifting market dynamics and strategic priorities. The loss of a seasoned leveraged finance partner is a setback for Mayer Brown, which must now work to fill the gap in its team. Conversely, Herbert Smith Freehills gains a proven practitioner who can immediately contribute to high-stakes transactions.
This lateral hire highlights the continued importance of the leveraged finance market in London, despite broader economic uncertainties. Law firms are positioning themselves to capitalise on deal activity as conditions evolve. The recruitment demonstrates Herbert Smith Freehills' active strategy to grow through targeted, high-value hires rather than broader mergers, a trend seen across the professional services sector.
As both firms adjust to this change, clients in the private equity and banking sectors will be watching closely. The move may influence where certain clients choose to place their instructions for upcoming leveraged acquisitions and refinancings in the UK and across Europe.
