Russell Van Praagh joins Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner

International law firm Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner (BCLP) today announces the appointment of Russell Van Praagh as a new partner in its Corporate and Finance Transactions practice group, based in London. Russell brings his extensive experience in private equity (PE) from his current role as co-leader of the lower mid-market PE team at another international legal practice in London. 

Russell’s current practice covers a wide range of sponsor-led and sell-side matters, making him a valuable addition to BCLP’s Corporate team. His expertise and track record in the PE space align with BCLP’s goal to further develop the firm’s mid-market transactions capabilities and enhance its PE practice in the UK, France and Germany. BCLP also has an established, strong presence in mid-market transactions in the US, evidenced by its recognition in mid-market M&A by Chambers and Partners. 

Carol Osborne, global leader of the Corporate and Finance Transactions Department, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Russell to BCLP. His expertise, reputation, and extensive network in the PE space will greatly enhance our visibility and credibility in the market and contribute significantly to our overall vision of becoming the go-to firm for complex mid-market transactions.”

Of his appointment, Russell said, “I am excited to join BCLP and the opportunities it presents. The firm’s active presence in the mid-market space in London, combined with its ambition to elevate the practice further, makes BCLP the right environment to grow my practice. Our shared growth-oriented approach and strong engagement from both the UK and US parts of the business make me confident that my practice will thrive at BCLP.”

Russell began his legal career at Macfarlanes, qualifying in 2000. He later joined Taylor Wessing, where he became a partner in 2007. In 2011, he joined McDermott Will & Emery. He assumed his current position in 2014, helping to create and grow the firm’s London based PE group, where he successfully built a repeat business focused on mid-market deals.