Global Lateral Partner Hiring Initiative – Energy, Projects & Infrastructure, Leveraged Finance / Private Capital, Capital Markets, Insurance, White Collar, Private Equity

A partner-level appointment on this brief turns on the portability of the practice, far more than on any headline figure.

Our client, a leading global law firm headquartered in Chicago, is undertaking a major strategic expansion and is actively seeking lateral partners and partner groups across multiple high-priority practice areas. This is an open-ended, continuous hiring effort spanning all offices worldwide, with particular strength in Houston and Texas for energy, New York and Chicago for insurance, and London for finance and projects.

The firm has identified six global growth teams: Energy, Projects & Infrastructure; Global Leveraged Finance / Private Capital; Capital Markets; Insurance; White Collar; and a newly prioritized Private Equity / private capital push. They are also actively pursuing structured finance, fund finance, credit funds, and real estate. Candidates and teams with portable books of business and strong client relationships are encouraged to explore these opportunities.

Why now: The firm is responding to competitive pressure and client demand by significantly accelerating lateral hiring, having brought in over 50 partners last year. They are known for a collaborative environment, including a 200% origination credit model that rewards sharing and teamwork, and they are prepared to move quickly—with a record of ten days from interview to offer.

Opportunity specifics:

• Fast-track process: responsive hiring team, quick decisions, competitive compensation.
• Open to remote arrangements for the right candidate, though office presence is preferred.
• Groups are particularly sought for Private Equity and Insurance.
• International opportunities in London, Middle East, and Asia, with focus on finance, projects, and infrastructure.

The firm is committed to staying competitive and will fight for the right teams. It has a strong global platform and a clear strategic vision for growth.

Ideal candidate profile:

• Established lateral partner with a strong, portable book of business and credible business plan, ideally not actively seeking a move but open to the platform story.
• Practice must align with one of the firm’s growth teams (Energy/Projects/Infrastructure, Leveraged Finance/Private Capital, Capital Markets, Insurance, White Collar, Private Equity) or adjacent areas like credit funds, structured finance, fund finance, or real estate.
• Collaborative, team-oriented approach; ability to thrive in a 200% origination credit environment.
• Portable book of business of $2M+ (USD)
• For equity partner consideration, a portable book in the $4-5M range is generally preferred.
• Specific thresholds vary by practice area; exceptional candidates with strong client demand may be considered with lower books.

Conversations stay confidential and nothing is shared with the firm without your explicit approval.