In a move that strengthens Barnes & Thornburg’s nationally recognized funds platform, B&T announced that Brantley Hawkins has joined the firm as a partner in New York City.
Hawkins focuses his practice on private funds and investment management. He was previously a partner at Croke Fairchild Duarte & Beres and a senior associate at Davis Polk & Wardwell, where he practiced with Scott Beal, co-chair of B&T’s Private Funds and Asset Management practice.
“Brantley is a top private funds lawyer with an outstanding reputation for client service,” said Beal. “I’m delighted to welcome Brantley to Barnes & Thornburg and look forward to practicing with him once again.”
In addition to Hawkins, corporate associates David Sur and Drew Bader have also joined the New York City office. Sur, previously at Paul Weiss Rifkind Wharton & Garrison, focuses on private funds and investment management. Bader, previously at Hughes Hubbard and Reed, concentrates on complex business transactions in various areas.
“These talented lawyers further deepen our bench in fund formation, regulatory, and transactional matters,” said Jahan Sharifi, chair of the Corporate Department. “We are excited to have them help us continue building our team in these key areas.”
Hawkins has extensive experience advising fund sponsors and investment managers, financial institutions, large institutional investors, and other entities, counseling them in accordance with the Investment Company Act and Investment Advisers Act. He also served as in-house counsel for hedge fund manager Two Sigma Investments, where he provided fund formation and regulatory guidance.
Sur focuses his practice on the formation, structuring and ongoing management of private equity funds, hedge funds, venture capital funds and other sophisticated investment platforms. Sur collaborates closely with fund sponsors, investment managers, general partners, and various investors to craft bespoke solutions that address the intricacies of fund economics, investor negotiations, and regulatory compliance.
Bader advises public and private companies and other investors on a range of corporate matters, including mergers and acquisitions, debt and equity financing, governance matters, and commercial transactions. He has led and supported cutting-edge technology and media-focused deals around the world, including in Europe, Asia, and Latin America, for local and international clients.
“I’m thrilled to welcome these lawyers to our office,” said Robert Boller, partner-in-charge of the New York office. “Their deep experience in private funds and investment management will be a tremendous asset to both our clients and our team. We look forward to their fresh perspectives and collaborative approach as we work together to support our clients in this fast-paced and dynamic space.”