Freshfields hits Paul Hastings for more infra talent

Freshfields has hired infrastructure and acquisition finance partner Alistair McKechnie from Paul Hastings, marking the latest in a string of strategic hires as it builds out its global energy and infrastructure practice.

McKechnie’s arrival follows the high-profile moves of Jessamy Gallagher and Stuart Rowson - also from Paul Hastings - who joined the Magic Circle firm in March.

Bloomberg has reported that at least seven associates have also made the switch from Paul Hastings to Freshfields as part of the wider team build.

McKechnie advises both sponsors and lenders on infrastructure and leveraged finance transactions. He joined Paul Hastings as a partner in 2023 from Latham & Watkins where he was an associate.

Freshfields said he will work alongside Gallagher and Richard Thexton, the firm’s global co-heads of energy and real assets, as well as partners Rowson and Jenny McIvor.

Bigger picture

The hire is part of Freshfields’ broader push to strengthen its private capital capabilities, with a strong focus on the energy transition and broader infrastructure sectors.

Commenting on Gallagher and Rowson's moves in February, Thexton said the pair were joining at a "pivotal" moment for the firm as "we look to expand our global E&I offering across the full range of private capital and strategic investors in the energy, energy transition and broader infrastructure sectors."

What they said

Gallagher said McKechnie’s hire also comes at a "pivotal moment" in the firm’s growth "when we look to expand our global offering across the full range of private capital investors in the energy, energy transition and broader infra sectors".