Freshfields’ Michael Hilton named regional managing partner for MENA 

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer (‘Freshfields’) has appointed Michael Hilton (pictured) as its regional managing partner for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), effective 01 July 2022. He succeeds partner Pervez Akhtar, who has completed his term. 

Hilton’s practice focuses on cross-border private and public m&a and joint ventures, with a focus on financial sponsor work and sovereign wealth funds, as well as major corporate clients.  

Having been at the firm for over two decades, Hilton practiced law in Freshfields in London and later joined the M&A team in MENA – based in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.  

Freshfields Senior Partner Georgia Dawson commented: “We’re delighted to appoint Michael as our new regional managing partner for MENA. Freshfields has more than 40 years’ experience in the region with leading practitioners playing a key role in our strong global practices. Michael brings to the role a wealth of experience in the corporate and M&A space and is well-placed to build on our strength in the MENA region and beyond. I also want to recognise the significant contribution made by Pervez Akhtar over many years in helping to shape our excellent MENA business. Pervez remains committed to the firm and will continue to offer his unique insights and advice to his numerous clients.” 

Freshfields Partner Michael Hilton added: “I’m excited to take on the leadership of our MENA region, which is recognised as having one of the pre-eminent transactional teams and a fantastic disputes practice. Our region presents many opportunities for growth, and I look forward to working alongside global leadership and the broader team on the ground to bring further success. I also look forward to continuing to work alongside our MENA team during what promises to be a very exciting period for Freshfields in the region.”