Martin Michalski

Lead lawyer for international expansion into emerging countries, identifying solutions to execution risks and challenges with support from outside counsel as well as legal and other subject matter experts across Amazon. Lead lawyer for a variety of initiatives aimed at expanding available selection and enhancing customer experience in Amazon’s existing emerging country stores.

Recruited by former Kirkland colleagues to join them in building the Sidley Austin leveraged finance practice. Acted as the lead associate in the representation of corporate borrowers and private equity sponsors, and of financial institutions in their capacities as administrative agents, collateral agents and lenders, in each case, in connection with direct lending and syndicated acquisition financings, other direct lending and syndicated secured financing transactions, refinancings and restructurings. Drafted and negotiated credit agreements, intercreditor agreements and commitment papers. Supervised junior attorneys in connection with drafting of security and pledge agreements, collateral ancillaries, legal opinions and other CPs. Served as continuing post-closing counsel to portfolio company borrowers and lender clients by providing ongoing covenant compliance advice and analysis in the context of various business activities.

Recruited by ex-Kirkland partner to help start Willkie's leveraged finance practice in London. Transitioned into a junior managerial role following the successful first year of the practice. Drafted and negotiated commitment letters, term sheets, fee letters, security documents and legal opinions and assisted with drafting and negotiation of credit agreements and intercreditor agreements on direct lending and syndicated financing transactions. Supervised junior attorneys and coordinated domestic and international local counsel. Counseled clients on various corporate and finance matters, including with respect to debt compliance, asset sales and acquisitions, internal reorganizations and restructurings.

Received client and supervisor commendations on quality of work, client care and commitment, professionalism and enthusiasm. Managed all aspects of closing complex direct lending and syndicated financing transactions, including drafting ancillary agreements and coordinating specialist review of transaction documents. Assisted with drafting and negotiating legal documentation to memorialize commitment of various financial institutions to lend to private equity sponsors to consummate leveraged buyouts and strategic acquisitions, including commitment letters, credit agreements and intercreditor agreements.

Banking & Finance

Private M&A Investment Funds Leveraged Finance

Secondment to the Corporate Group at Baker & McKenzie Singapore