Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP fields a ‘truly top-notch’ team, renowned for its expertise in public and private M&A, private equity deals, and IPOs. The group excels in advising on management equity, employment arrangements, and compensation plans, as well as corporate governance and ERISA-related matters. Heading the team, Gregory Grogan has notably represented Microsoft in its $75 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard, and is celebrated for his work in executive retention and motivation. Jamin Koslowe specializes in equity-based incentive plans, deferred compensation, and benefits issues in spin-offs and securities offerings. Brian Robbins, at the helm of the firm’s Title I ERISA practice, is adept at negotiating employment and termination agreements for high-profile executives. Laurence Moss lends his expertise to the employee benefits aspects of leveraged buyouts, while Andrew Blau focuses on structuring employment contracts, deferred compensation schemes, and management participation in new ventures. Jeannine McSweeney is well regarded for her guidance on incentives, retirement plans, and severance agreements in the context of M&A, IPOs, and joint ventures. Gillian Emmett Moldowan joined the team in October 2024 from A&O Shearman. All lawyers mentioned are in New York.