In the field of mergers and acquisitions (M&A), Michal Berkner has emerged as a trailblazing figure, celebrated for her expertise in cross-border transactions and her commitment to diversity and inclusion within the legal industry. Currently a senior M&A partner at Cooley LLP in London, Berkner has made a significant impact in guiding high-profile transactions across industries like life sciences, healthcare, and technology. This article explores Berkner’s background, her contributions to M&A law, her leadership role in promoting women in the legal profession, and her achievements in the industry.
Background and Legal Expertise
Michal Berkner’s career spans over two decades, with her qualifications in both New York and the UK adding a unique dimension to her legal practice. Berkner began her career in New York, where she honed her skills in high-stakes corporate transactions. Her move to London bolstered her status as a top-tier M&A attorney with an international perspective. Her expertise covers a range of complex M&A areas, including strategic buyouts, takeover defenses, and joint ventures, especially those involving global, high-profile clients.
Berkner’s professional background includes working for Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, where she spent over 20 years before joining Cooley LLP in 2018. Her transition to Cooley enabled her to further influence the firm’s M&A practice, strengthening its presence in the UK and European markets. Berkner is praised for her ability to handle both public and private cross-border transactions, making her a valuable asset to corporations and private equity firms seeking guidance in navigating intricate regulatory and market dynamics.
Contributions to Cooley LLP and Cross-Border M&A
At Cooley, Michal Berkner has been instrumental in expanding the firm’s reach within the competitive M&A landscape in Europe. Her work includes advising corporations and investment firms in transactions that shape industry trends and corporate governance standards. Cooley’s London office, bolstered by Berkner’s leadership, has become a hub for M&A activity, with Berkner at the forefront of advising on deals that have a transformative impact on client businesses.
Under Berkner’s guidance, Cooley has successfully managed high-profile transactions, such as representing SwiftKey in its acquisition by Microsoft and RZC Investments in acquiring a stake in cycling brand Rapha. Berkner’s team also led on deals such as Apollo Global Management’s acquisition of Apollo Education Group, highlighting Cooley’s ability to execute complex, high-value transactions that span multiple jurisdictions.
Advocacy for Women in Law and Diversity Initiatives
Berkner has consistently championed diversity and inclusion in the legal sector, focusing particularly on promoting female representation and leadership. She founded the Skadden Women Attorneys Network in 2008, which provides networking and mentorship opportunities for female attorneys. The network has grown into a vital support system, promoting gender equality in the legal profession.
Her work in this area has earned her notable recognition. In 2017, she was named to the Financial Times HERoes list of the top 50 female champions of women in business in the UK and Ireland. Berkner’s recognition also includes a “Highly Commended Woman in Law” distinction at the 2019 British Legal Awards, further solidifying her commitment to advancing opportunities for women in legal careers.
Recognition and Industry Impact
Michal Berkner’s contributions have been widely acknowledged, and she is regularly ranked as a leading M&A practitioner by industry publications such as Chambers Global and Chambers UK. Berkner’s achievements are a testament to her ability to combine legal acumen with a dedication to improving the industry’s inclusivity.
Her recognition extends beyond individual accolades to her role in shaping Cooley’s reputation as a top M&A law firm. Cooley’s UK office, partly driven by Berkner’s leadership, has received multiple accolades, including “London Office of the Year” at the British Legal Awards. The firm’s reputation for excellence in M&A, bolstered by Berkner’s influence, continues to attract high-profile clients and significant cross-border opportunities.
Conclusion
Michal Berkner’s career exemplifies excellence in M&A law, particularly in the realm of cross-border transactions. Her contributions to Cooley LLP’s growth in the UK, coupled with her advocacy for gender equality, underscore her influence in shaping the legal landscape. Berkner’s achievements reflect both her dedication to her clients and her broader commitment to diversity and innovation within the legal industry.
Berkner continues to set a high standard for legal excellence, paving the way for future generations of women in law. As the demand for expert guidance in M&A grows, Berkner’s influence and leadership will likely continue to resonate, shaping both Cooley’s success and the industry at large.
