Simmons joins Milan push with three-lawyer finance team from Dentons

Simmons & Simmons has strengthened its finance practice in Italy with the hire of partner Franco Gialloreti and two additional lawyers from Dentons in Milan.

Gialloreti joined Dentons in 2016 as a senior associate and made partner earlier this year. He advises banks, funds and corporates on a range of finance matters and has particular expertise in leveraged buyouts acting for banks and private debt funds.

He is joined by counsel Tommaso Zanirato and associate Giorgio Peli.

Moves in Milan

Several international firms have been bulking-up their presence in Milan as the financial centre's status as a private capital hub continues to grow.

Last month Ropes & Gray opened there with a three-lawyer private equity team from Latham & Watkins led by key partner Cataldo Piccarreta, while Linklaters recently recruited top deals partner Massimiliano Nitti from leading M&A firm Chiomenti to head its Italian corporate practice.

What they said

Simone Lucatello, head of Simmons’ financial markets department in Italy, said: "We are thrilled to welcome Franco, Tommaso, and Giorgio to our team. Their experience, energy, and expertise will further enhance our ability to support clients in complex and strategic transactions, both nationally and internationally.

"These additions represent another step in the growth of our firm in Italy, confirming our commitment to providing excellent legal advice in the banking and financial sectors."