Hogan Lovells boosts private equity capabilities

Michael James, a highly regarded private equity deals lawyer, brings over 15 years of expertise in private equity real estate transactions. He has established himself as the "go-to" adviser for major European real estate and private equity investors, focusing on structured acquisitions, joint ventures, and hotel operations among other areas. Meanwhile, Edward Meadowcroft is also a prominent lawyer in the private equity realm, specialising in transactions that encompass acquisitions, disposals, and restructurings. His significant experience with both UK and international clients equips him to handle complex cross-border mandates.

James Doyle, Practice Group Leader for Corporate & Finance at Hogan Lovells, highlighted that “our clients are navigating increasingly complex cross-border investment structures and are seeking sophisticated private equity advisers with deep real estate expertise. Michael and Edward’s arrival reflects our ambition to be the firm of choice for private equity investors in this space.” This sentiment was echoed by Ed Harris, who remarked that “private equity flows into real estate remain strong, even amid market volatility,” underlining the importance of expertise in complex transactions. Dan Norris added that “private equity real estate is one of the most dynamic areas of the market, with strong investor appetite for hotels and high-end assets driving some of the most sophisticated transactions.”

Both James and Meadowcroft have expressed enthusiasm about their new roles at Hogan Lovells, with James looking forward to supporting clients in the dynamic private equity sector while Meadowcroft praised the firm’s strengths across corporate and real estate, calling it a compelling platform. Expanding its presence, Hogan Lovells has also made strategic hires in Greater China, Singapore, Hong Kong, Germany, and Italy. These investments underline the firm’s commitment to developing its global private equity platform and enhancing its offerings across the G20 economies.