Debt Finance Lawyer Scott Welkis Joins Akin Gump
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(New York) – Akin Gump is pleased to announce that Scott Welkis has joined the firm as a partner in its New York office. Mr. Welkis, whose practice focuses on debt financing and special situation opportunities, comes to Akin Gump from Stroock & Stroock & Lavan LLP.
Mr. Welkis advises private equity funds, hedge funds, creditors’ committees and other alternative capital sources, as well as banks and other financial institutions. His representations include complex financing transactions, including secured and unsecured senior and subordinated financings for acquisition, bridge, project and working capital purposes. He also has significant experience in connection with restructurings, workouts and debtor-in-possession and exit financings.
“The continued enhancement of our debt finance capabilities has been a strategic priority for the firm, and Scott’s skill set makes him an ideal fit,” said Akin Gump chairperson Kim Koopersmith. “Scott brings a depth of experience that is highly valued by many of our clients, particularly our funds and funds-related clients, and I’m thrilled to welcome him to Akin Gump.”
Added Kerry E. Berchem, head of Akin Gump’s corporate practice, “Scott’s debt finance practice resides at the nexus of three of our firm’s areas of strength: corporate, financial restructuring and private equity work. His experience, combined with his thoughtful and creative approach to problem solving, makes him a tremendous addition to our existing world-class team and a great asset to our clients.”
“It’s exciting to join a firm whose strengths are such excellent complements to my finance practice,” said Mr. Welkis. “Akin Gump represents a terrific opportunity for me, and I look forward to helping the firm build out its already-strong finance practice and putting my skills to work on behalf of the firm’s clients.”
Mr. Welkis received his J.D. from Fordham University School of Law and his B.A. from Trinity College.
Founded in 1945, Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP is a leading international law firm with more than 900 lawyers in offices throughout the United States, Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
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