Reed Smith expands into Atlanta with 15-partner team specializing in private equity, M&A, finance, and technology
Reed Smith, a prominent global law firm, has recently unveiled its plans to establish a branch in Atlanta. This exciting development will see the incorporation of a team comprised of 15 highly skilled partners specializing in private equity, mergers and acquisitions, finance, and technology. These partners are making the transition from Morris, Manning & Martin (MMM) and Greenberg Traurig, bringing with them a group of 37 lawyers, including two counsel and 20 associates, to bolster Reed Smith’s corporate and finance practices and extend its reach into the Southeast region.
The new team joining Reed Smith’s Atlanta office boasts an impressive lineup of professionals, including seven former chairs and co-chairs with expertise across various key fields. Notable additions to the team include Nick Foreste, who previously co-chaired MMM’s Emerging Companies and Venture Capital practice, and Scott Allen, who co-chaired MMM’s Private Equity practice. Foreste will now serve as co-chair of Reed Smith’s Emerging Company/Venture Capital practice, while Amie Singer, recognized for her work in private equity and emerging growth, will take on the role of Atlanta office managing partner. Cindy Davis, former chair of Greenberg Traurig’s Banking and Financial Services practice, and finance partner Daniel Richards will also play instrumental roles within the office.
Additional key hires include Nick Rueter, Chris Maxwell, and Larkin Ellzey, esteemed figures in the private equity sector. The team further includes Matt San Roman, Anthony Boggs, Scott Wagner, and Ryan Gorman, each bringing their unique specialization to the table. These new additions will complement Reed Smith’s existing partner Will Atherton, a regulatory expert in financial services.
Casey Ryan, Reed Smith’s global managing partner, expressed enthusiasm regarding the expansion: “Our firm is in growth mode. We have a proven track record of building strong teams in new markets by attracting top talent with deep roots in the community.” The firm’s expansion into Atlanta aligns with its strategic objectives and underscores a commitment to fostering a collaborative and inclusive workplace culture.
Reed Smith’s new Atlanta office will be characterized by a diverse range of transactional expertise, further enhancing the firm’s already impressive portfolio of successful deals. Singer, who will head the Atlanta office, highlighted the synergies between the new team’s vision and Reed Smith’s strong industry presence, particularly in sectors like healthcare, life sciences, entertainment, and consumer goods.
Cindy Davis emphasized the global capabilities of Reed Smith’s financial services practice, noting its potential to benefit clients navigating complex financial markets. This sentiment was echoed by the incoming team, who expressed eagerness to contribute to the success of the newly established Atlanta office and leverage the firm’s expansive network to deliver exceptional legal services to their clients.
With the majority of the Atlanta team joining Reed Smith’s Global Corporate Group, the firm now boasts a collective of over 350 lawyers spread across 32 offices on three continents, solidifying its position as a leading player in the legal industry.