#USA #New York #Debevoise Plimpton #Neal J. Reenan #Ian Bushner

Debevoise & Plimpton Enhances Private Capital Platform

On October 5, 2026, Debevoise & Plimpton LLP made a notable addition to its Mergers & Acquisitions group in New York with the hiring of recognized private equity lawyers Neal J. Reenan and Ian Bushner as partners. This move marks a significant investment in strengthening the firm’s private capital capabilities, further extending its already comprehensive service offerings. Their involvement comes on the heels of appointments made to bolster the firm's private equity practice, which include partners Mary Lavelle, Karen Chao, Zahra Sowder, and Andrea Hwang. With Reenan and Bushner joining, Debevoise solidifies its position as a leader in the Private Equity Buyouts sector, as recognized by Chambers, having the highest number of attorneys acknowledged in New York.

Both Reenan and Bushner are renowned for their expertise in advising private equity firms and their portfolios on a vast spectrum of complex transactions that include buyouts, carve-outs, joint ventures, and strategic investments across various industries both domestically and internationally. Prior to their roles at Debevoise, they played pivotal roles at another leading international law firm where they led private capital practices.

Presiding Partner at Debevoise, Peter Furci, expressed confidence in the new addition, stating, "Neal and Ian are renowned private equity lawyers respected widely in the sponsor community for their expertise and well-established relationships. Their addition further fortifies our private capital platform, enhancing the expertise we offer clients on intricate transactions."

Kevin Rinker, Co-Chair of the M&A group, highlighted the ongoing rise in M&A activity, remarking that this trend is leading to increasingly complex transactions in the private capital field. He emphasized the strong synergy that Reenan and Bushner bring as they have collaborated for over a decade, representing top sponsors in these transactions. "Their combined experience and insight will further elevate our service delivery to clients at a time when the market demands more sophisticated solutions."

In agreement, Chris Anthony, fellow Co-Chair, noted their impressive track record in providing trusted advice to discerning clients within the private equity landscape, expressing enthusiasm over their decision to join Debevoise, which has been at the forefront of private capital for nearly 50 years.

In reflecting on their decision to move, Reenan mentioned, "Debevoise has an exceptional private equity practice that spans MA, fund formation, finance, and related areas. Ian and I recognize the remarkable opportunity presented here to join a firm that integrates these capabilities, offering invaluable services to clients with their crucial matters."

Bushner echoed these sentiments, stating, "The global platform at Debevoise creates significant possibilities to engage with clients across various markets and sectors. We anticipate leveraging our collective expertise with colleagues in New York and globally to build upon the firm's positive momentum and further enhance the practice."

Neal J. Reenan holds a J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School, along with an M.B.A. and M.S. in Accounting from Northeastern University, and a Bachelor of Arts from Harvard University. Ian Bushner earned his J.D. with honors from the University of Chicago Law School, and holds a Bachelor of Arts with honors from Washington University in St. Louis.

With the addition of such esteemed lawyers, Debevoise & Plimpton is poised to strengthen its leadership and offer unmatched expertise in navigating the complexities of private equity transactions for its clients.