Latham & Watkins Bolsters Boston Private Equity Practice with Addition of Matthew Cohn from Kirkland & Ellis

Latham & Watkins Bolsters Private Equity Practice in Boston with Addition of Kirkland & Ellis Partner Matthew Cohn

In a strategic move to enhance its mergers and acquisitions and private equity practice in Boston, Latham & Watkins has welcomed Matthew Cohn, a seasoned deals partner from Kirkland & Ellis. Cohn’s addition as a partner in the firm was announced on Monday, marking a significant development for Latham’s presence in the city.

Paul Kukish, global chair of Latham’s private equity practice, expressed his excitement about Cohn joining the team, stating that it will “supercharge what is already a wonderful private equity practice for us in Boston.” With Boston being a key hub for private equity, life sciences, healthcare, and technology sectors, Latham has been strategically expanding its footprint in the city since opening its office in 2011.

Cohn brings a wealth of experience representing large and middle market private equity funds, growth funds, and public and private companies in domestic and cross-border M&A transactions. His impressive track record includes advising on leveraged buyouts, growth equity investments, structured equity and debt financings, as well as corporate restructurings and workouts.

Having previously played a pivotal role in opening Kirkland’s Boston office in 2017, Cohn’s move to Latham signifies a new chapter in his career. He noted that the complexity of private equity transactions and the evolving landscape of the market prompted him to consider his long-term career goals, ultimately leading him to Latham.

Latham’s strong performance in global private equity deals, with 149 transactions worth $104 billion in the first half of this year, solidifies its position as a leader in the industry. Despite challenges in the US private equity market, Latham’s expertise in capital markets and regulated spaces sets it apart from competitors, according to Cohn.

Cohn’s transition to Latham was facilitated by Josh Dull and Sabina Lippman of Lippman Jungers Johnson Downie, showcasing the collaborative effort behind the move. With Latham’s continued focus on expanding its private equity bench, Cohn’s arrival is expected to further enhance the firm’s offerings to clients in the middle market and large cap M&A space.

Overall, Cohn’s move to Latham represents a strategic alignment of talent and expertise in the private equity sector, underscoring the firm’s commitment to growth and innovation in Boston’s thriving legal market.