Latham & Watkins announced on Monday the addition of deals partner Matthew Cohn from Kirkland & Ellis to its mergers and acquisitions and private equity practice in Boston. This strategic move marks a significant step in Latham’s ongoing efforts to bolster its private equity offerings in a city recognized for its thriving tech, healthcare, and life sciences sectors. Paul Kukish, global chair of Latham’s private equity practice, highlighted that the inclusion of Cohn is set to enhance the firm’s capabilities in the middle market and large cap M&A segments.
Boston continues to be a focal point for law firm expansion, owing to the strength of its private equity market. Latham, having inaugurated its Boston office in 2011, has since expanded to over 100 attorneys, including more than 30 partners. The significance of Boston as a legal hub can be seen in how firms like Latham are actively augmenting their local talent pool to better serve an ever-evolving client base.
Matthew Cohn brings with him a wealth of experience, representing both large and middle market private equity funds, growth funds, and diverse companies in domestic and cross-border M&A. His expertise spans leveraged buyouts, growth equity investments, structured financing, and corporate restructurings. Before his tenure at Kirkland, where he helped launch their Boston office in 2017, Cohn had roles at Weil Gotshal & Manges, Bingham McCutchen, and Willkie Farr & Gallagher. He has worked with notable clients including Summit Partners, ABRY Partners, and Genstar Capital. Earlier this year, he was part of the Kirkland team that facilitated the all-stock merger between OrangeTheory Fitness and Self Esteem Brands.
Reflecting on his move, Cohn remarked on Latham’s strength in capital markets and regulated spaces, areas increasingly relevant as private equity transactions grow in complexity. This capability, he noted, positions Latham distinctively amongst its peers. Moreover, Cohn’s discussions with Latham leadership convinced him of the firm’s readiness to support the next phase of his career.
This lateral hire aligns with Latham’s broader strategy to fortify its private equity practice on a national scale, evidenced by recent acquisitions of other noteworthy private equity partners from competitors such as Fried Frank. The legal community can follow ongoing industry shifts and trends here.