Gabriel Yomi Dabiri

Global Head of Private Credit and Direct Lending at Squire Patton Boggs

Gabriel Yomi Dabiri is a finance attorney based in New York. He currently serves as the Global Head of Private Credit and Direct Lending at Squire Patton Boggs, where he advises clients on a wide range of finance transactions. His work spans domestic and international financings, special situations, debt restructurings, and bankruptcies.

Gabriel's experience covers senior, mezzanine, and subordinated loans, unitranche facilities, and both first- and second-lien structures. He is also well-versed in cash flow lending, asset-based lending (ABL), subscription lines, distressed debt, DIP financing, and real estate finance arrangements.

With a strong background in “buy-and-hold” private credit strategies and broadly syndicated finance, he advises lenders, private equity sponsors, and corporate borrowers on routine and complex financing matters.

Career and Leadership in Private Credit

Gabriel's primary focus is on developing the Global Private Credit and Direct Lending practice at Squire Patton Boggs. With a solid grasp of transaction execution and market trends, he provides clients with clear, commercially sound advice. He regularly negotiates intercreditor and subordination agreements and supports clients through challenging restructuring and bankruptcy scenarios.

His approach combines technical knowledge with practical judgment. By aligning legal strategy with client priorities, he helps manage financial risks and supports the achievement of business goals.

Global Experience and Cross-Border Capability

Gabriel is qualified to practice law in both New York and England and Wales. Having lived and worked in New York, London, and Singapore, he brings a global view to international transactions and multi-jurisdictional finance work.

Career Path

Gabriel began his legal career in London, training at the international law firm Linklaters across its London, Singapore, and New York offices. He later joined White & Case LLP as an associate on the Banking and Finance team, where he secured his first significant private credit client during his fifth year. These early roles were key in shaping his legal judgment and technical skills.

In 2016, he joined Morrison & Foerster, where he focused on private credit transactions. He was later invited to establish a Private Credit and Cross-Border Finance practice at the national law firm Polsinelli. He was also appointed Managing Partner of the firm’s New York office, a position he held from September 2021 to April 2025. During his tenure, the office grew by 83%, prompting the firm to expand to an additional floor. He played a key role in designing the new space and naming its main multipurpose room, “The Big Apple,” which is used for various firm events, including hosting dignitaries such as the Queen and the Princess of Sweden.

In April 2025, he joined Squire Patton Boggs in his current leadership role. Based in the New York City Metropolitan Area, he is responsible for growing the firm’s Private Credit and Direct Lending practice across its 48 global offices, offering tailored advice that addresses both technical and strategic aspects of finance.

Education and Dual Qualification

Gabriel earned a B.A. in Economics and Political Science from the University of Pennsylvania in 2000 and an LL.B (Hons) in Law from Cardiff University in 2008.

His dual legal qualifications have been valuable throughout his career. Since many financial transactions are governed by New York law or the laws of England and Wales, this dual capability allows him to handle sophisticated cross-border deals that require expertise in both jurisdictions.

Philanthropy and Community Engagement

Outside his legal practice, Gabriel contributes to community initiatives and philanthropic causes. From March 2018 to March 2025, he served on the Board and Finance Committee of Women First International Fund, supporting programs focused on economic empowerment. Since September 2020, he has volunteered with the American Heart Association’s Council for a Cause program, offering legal support to health-related projects.

Innovative Finance Strategies

Gabriel provides clients with tailored financial strategies that align with market conditions. By applying his understanding of private credit and cross-border transactions, he helps them reach objectives that may otherwise be out of reach. His ability to handle intricate legal and financial challenges is rooted in a blend of innovation and experience.

Global Perspective with Practical Insight

Gabriel Yomi Dabiri is one of the few finance attorneys whose experience spans multiple continents and markets. This enables him to advise on multi-jurisdictional financings, restructurings, and lending structures. His clients benefit from a global view and a careful balance between international standards and local requirements.

His commitment to professional development includes mentoring others and supporting knowledge sharing within legal and financial communities. Through consistent, thoughtful guidance, he remains focused on advancing the practice of private credit and cross-border finance.