Linklaters’ new global head of banking, Hong Kong-based Davide Mencacci, plans to focus on better integration across the firm’s global operations in the sector. Mencacci told Asia Business Law Journal he would remain in Hong Kong in his new role, and considers the city his long-term base. “We are a global firm and Asia is a fundamental part of our business,” he said.
Linklaters appointed Mencacci to the position for a four-year term with effect from 1 February, succeeding Tony Bugg.
“The banking practice is extremely successful and has performed strongly for a number of years, he said. “It has a renowned reputation globally, with our teams working on some of the largest and most complex matters in the market.
“I plan to build on this strong foundation and encourage greater integration across the globe to ensure we continue to deliver the firm to our clients across all sectors of our business. Cross-selling and looking for opportunities for our broader business will be a key focus, alongside remaining innovative in both the way we deliver our services and the products we target.”
A partner at Linklaters since 2007, Mencacci acts on transactions in the Asian, Italian and London market. He has over 19 years of experience acting for both international and domestic European banks and finance providers, as well as for sponsors, private equity providers and borrowers.
Mencacci said one of the biggest challenges in his new role would be reading a rapidly evolving market. “The market has become much more competitive and dynamic, with market reforms and economic and political uncertainties pointing towards a future mixed with both unique opportunities and challenges,” he said. “We need to be constantly looking at our business, the market, and our clients, both actual and potential, to ensure we are best placed to take advantage of opportunities as and when they arise.”
Mencacci’s experience includes leveraged finance transactions, structured finance, investment-grade finance, margin lending, property finance and cross-border restructuring transactions. He trained and qualified in London before moving to Milan in 2001. He then moved to Hong Kong in 2015.
Michael Kent, global head of finance & projects at the firm, said: “I am confident Davide will be an excellent leader. Linklaters’ banking practice is preeminent across the globe with our teams working on the largest and most complex matters. With Davide’s skillset I am excited to see where he leads the practice in the coming years.”
Linklaters’ global practice has advised on some significant deals recently, including the financing for Softbank’s US$100 billion investment fund, advising the financing banks on Bain Capital’s US$18 billion acquisition of Toshiba Memory – the largest leveraged buyout deal in Asia to date – and BBVA on the world’s first syndicated loan on blockchain.
