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Jeff Karpf signals the beginning of Cleary's new phase

New Managing Partner of Cleary Gottlieb set to reveal potential changes and future direction when he takes office in January.

Jeff Karpf heralds a new phase in Cleary's upcoming story
Jeff Karpf heralds a new phase in Cleary's upcoming story

Jeff Karpf signals the beginning of Cleary's new phase

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton, one of the most prestigious law firms in the world, is experiencing significant growth, particularly in London and New York. The firm's success can be attributed to its focus on private markets and its commitment to adopting technology and artificial intelligence to better serve clients.

The growth at the firm is driven by demand in private markets, including private funds, private equity transactions, private finance, private credit, and private restructuring. This focus on private markets has positioned Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton as a leading player in the industry.

Litigation is identified as a major area of opportunity for growth. Securities litigation, shareholder activism, and consumer antitrust are particular growth markets. The firm's expertise in these areas, combined with its commitment to client service, makes it an attractive choice for clients seeking legal counsel in these complex and evolving fields.

The firm's culture is described as decent, collaborative, and supportive. This culture is a key factor in attracting lateral partners and retaining top talent. Jeff Karpf, who has been with the firm for over three decades, will become the managing partner on January 1, 2026. Under his leadership, the firm has always been committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a focus on attracting and retaining the best talent.

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton has most strongly expanded its presence in the United Kingdom and the United States by strengthening partners and staff in its London and New York offices. The firm has also partnered with Legora, an AI platform for the legal sector, to enhance its efficiency and effectiveness in preparing draft agreements, certificates, and reviewing documents. Approximately 1,500 people at the firm are currently using Legora, and Jeff Karpf has organized training sessions for 3,000 staff on the AI platform.

The IPO market is opening up in the US, and the debt markets have been very strong. However, geopolitical uncertainty makes clients cautious, but they still need capital and financing. Companies must balance complying with different ESG and climate requirements and provide disclosure to the market about their actions. There is a divergence between regulatory regimes regarding ESG and climate, with Europe pushing for more active climate disclosure than the US.

Jeff Karpf emphasizes the importance of safeguarding the firm's culture as it continues to grow. He believes that the firm's success is built on its commitment to client service, its focus on private markets, and its ability to adapt to changing market conditions. With its strong leadership, commitment to technology, and focus on client service, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton is well-positioned to continue its growth and success in the coming years.

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