Michal Berkner: A Leading Expert in European Mergers and Acquisitions

Michal Berkner stands as a distinguished figure in the legal domain, particularly in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) within the life sciences, healthcare, and technology sectors. Her extensive expertise spans nearly three decades, navigating cross-border transactions and corporate governance with a commitment to elevating standards for women in law. Currently a partner at the London office of McDermott Will & Emery, Berkner’s dual qualifications in New York and England & Wales further strengthen her capacity to manage complex international transactions.

A Trailblazer in Mergers and Acquisitions Law

With over 27 years in M&A advisory, Michal Berkner is a seasoned authority in handling high-stakes deals. She has earned respect in a traditionally male-dominated field, consistently demonstrating her adeptness at steering negotiations, securing high-value acquisitions, and managing intricate legal frameworks.

Key Milestones in Her Career

Michal Berkner’s professional journey reflects her growth into a market leader:

• Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP: Spent over 20 years honing her skills in complex, large-scale transactions.

• Cooley LLP: Enhanced her reputation as a prominent M&A expert in the legal field.

• McDermott Will & Emery: Currently serves as a partner, providing strategic counsel in M&A, especially in highly regulated sectors.

Academic Foundations and Early Career

Berkner’s academic achievements have set a strong foundation for her legal career:

• University of Pennsylvania: Completed her law degree in 1997, laying the groundwork for her international legal expertise.

• Johns Hopkins University: Obtained a Bachelor’s degree, further enriching her analytical skills and capacity for rigorous legal research.

Specialized Expertise in Life Sciences, Healthcare, and Technology

Michal Berkner's influence in M&A is most prominent within life sciences, healthcare, and technology, fields marked by rapid innovation, stringent regulations, and significant capital requirements.

Notable Transactions and Achievements

Berkner has been pivotal in numerous high-value deals:

• $1 Billion Acquisition: Advised a biotech client on a complex acquisition deal.

• $248 Million Merger: Led the legal counsel for a global biopharmaceutical merger.

• $1.8 Billion Dental Technology Acquisition: Provided strategic guidance to facilitate a landmark deal in the dental technology sector.

• $33.8 Billion Steel Industry Merger: Played a crucial role in executing one of the largest industry consolidations.

Strategic Advantages in Cross-Border M&A

Her dual qualification enables Berkner to expertly manage the regulatory and compliance intricacies involved in international deals. Her ability to navigate U.S. and UK laws positions her as an invaluable advisor for multinational corporations.

Awards and Recognition

Berkner’s influence and expertise have not gone unnoticed:

• Chambers Global and Chambers UK: Consistently recognized as a top-tier M&A lawyer.

• Financial Times HERoes List (2017): Named among the top 50 women business leaders in the UK and Ireland, celebrating her contributions to diversity and inclusivity within the legal profession.

Mentorship and Advocacy for Women in Law

Berkner’s commitment to women’s advancement in law is a cornerstone of her legacy. She founded the Skadden Women Attorneys Network in 2008, a program designed to foster a supportive community for women lawyers through leadership training, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

Key Initiatives in Mentorship

• Skadden Women Attorneys Network: Provides networking, educational events, and mentorship for women attorneys.

• Diversity and Inclusion Efforts: Advocates for equitable representation and career advancement for female lawyers, particularly in high-demand sectors like M&A.

Navigating Complex Cross-Border Transactions

Berkner’s cross-border experience extends to managing multifaceted legal frameworks across jurisdictions. Her expertise has proven essential in securing compliance and maintaining robust corporate governance structures during transactions, particularly in highly regulated industries.

Noteworthy Cross-Border Deals

1. $33.8 Billion Steel Merger: A challenging, multinational deal involving complex legal coordination.

2. $1.8 Billion Dental Technology Purchase: Required nuanced understanding of both U.S. and UK legal systems to ensure seamless integration.

Corporate Governance and Takeover Defenses

A major component of Berkner’s M&A expertise lies in her strategic approach to corporate governance and takeover defenses. Her guidance helps organizations safeguard shareholder value, protect against hostile takeovers, and enhance decision-making during critical negotiations.

Challenges in the Evolving M&A Landscape

The M&A field faces increasing challenges, including stringent regulatory requirements and economic uncertainty. Berkner’s response is to advocate for flexibility and proactive strategies to adapt to evolving market dynamics.

Key Strategies for Overcoming M&A Challenges

1. Flexibility and Innovation: Emphasizing adaptable strategies to meet changing regulations.

2. Comprehensive Risk Management: Developing frameworks to address complex compliance and legal requirements across borders.

Conclusion

Michal Berkner exemplifies the pinnacle of expertise in mergers and acquisitions law. Her dual qualifications, deep sector knowledge, and dedication to mentoring women make her a formidable force in M&A. Through her leadership, she continues to elevate standards in a field undergoing rapid transformation, solidifying her status as a trailblazer in cross-border transactions and corporate governance.