Investment Funds | Global

Mara Topping possesses a wealth of experience acting for PE and VC funds, advising on the establishment and structuring of investment vehicles. Based in Washington, DC, she also represents a number of international development finance institutions, banks and other financial institutions. In September 2023 she joined DLA Piper after leaving White & Case.

Johannesburg-based Nicole Paige of Webber Wentzel has an excellent reputation in the investment funds field, focusing on fund formation and structuring. Her impressive roster of clients features a myriad of PE and VC houses targeting investments across Africa. Her work includes assisting with the formation and closing of female-owned funds as well as funds focused on renewable energy.

London-based Solomon Wifa of Willkie Farr & Gallagher primarily focuses his practice on fundraising and sponsorship, but he also assists with transactions and the deployment of capital. Peers laud him for his presence on African matters and his comprehensive advice to both general and limited partners.

Gerard Saviola advances in the rankings following strong praise for his work. He regularly acts for sponsors, including development finance institutions and institutional investors. He advises a number of prominent African PE funds providing capital to a range of sectors, including startups and SMEs. Based in the London office of Clifford Chance, he also has experience providing legal support to real estate, infrastructure and debt funds.

London-based James O'Donnell co-leads DLA Piper's global investment management and funds practice. He climbs the Africa-wide rankings as a result of strong market endorsement and an increased involvement in Africa-related investment fund matters. He is particularly noted for representing limited partners, and in particular, development finance institutions.

Ashford Nyatsumba is based in the Johannesburg office of Webber Wentzel. He enters the rankings in response to high praise from commentators. Nyatsumba represents a variety of asset managers and private equity groups throughout Africa, primarily acting on the formation and establishment of Africa-focused private equity funds. His experience spans a wide range of asset classes and industries, including infrastructure, healthcare and venture capital.

Geoffrey Kittredge of Debevoise & Plimpton represents a number of distinguished PE funds and sponsors targeting investments in emerging markets in Africa. A highly regarded name in the London market, he has assisted with the establishment of funds investing in a range of sectors, including healthcare, agriculture and education.

London-based Ian Warner of Pinsent Masons is recognised for his work acting for a range of African fund and investment managers. He also provides support to a number of other stakeholders, including notable development finance institutions.

John Bellew heads the private equity group at Bowmans. He operates an extremely well-regarded investment funds practice and is recognised as a household name in the South African market. Based in Johannesburg, he frequently advises on the formation of PE funds, also providing support on transactions and financing.