Simon Tinkler – Senior legal adviser, CD&R
Year of qualification: 1993
Clifford Chance, 1995-2022
CD&R, 2022-present
Why did you want to become a private equity lawyer?
I loved the intersection between the law and the real world. On each transaction you get to understand a new business or sector, and then to think about the many and varied legal issues that impact on it. I also really enjoy the fact it is a real team effort, both internally and externally; as a private equity lawyer you are absolutely core to that team.
What has been the most memorable deal of your in-house career?
Helping Motor Fuel Group and Morrisons on the £2.5bn sale of the petrol filling stations of Morrisons to MFG. Firstly, we had to create an entire stand-alone business from scratch. The subsequent transaction itself was extremely complex, but in addition we had to ensure that both companies were advised completely independently and that their interests (and different shareholder groups) were fully protected.
What do you think will be the biggest challenges for PE in the coming years?
Increasing scrutiny and publicity on the private equity industry, and on some key sectors in which it invests. That will come from regulatory authorities, political commentators and the public. That is not a bad thing at all, and private equity must be prepared to explain the benefits it brings, the investment it fosters and the value it creates.
Why would you recommend a career working in private equity?
Really interesting work, creating jobs and value in a raft of industries throughout the UK and Europe, and working with incredibly bright – and challenging – people.
