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Strengthening Restructuring Expertise at Debevoise

New York, February 12, 2026 - In a decisive step to amplify its restructuring expertise, Debevoise & Plimpton LLP has announced a series of strategic partner appointments aimed at enhancing its service offerings in response to growing client demands in the private capital sectors. Effective February 16, 2026, this initiative underscores the firm's commitment to addressing the increasing complexities faced by clients amid evolving market conditions.

Rachel Ehrlich Albanese, Sam Newman, and Daniel Shamah have been welcomed as new partners within the Restructuring Group, with Ms. Albanese taking on the role of Co-Chair. Concurrently, Ben Pedersen, Scott Selinger, and Erica Weisgerber have been appointed as Co-Chairs focusing on Liability Management and Special Situations. Ms. Weisgerber's elevation to Chair of Bankruptcy Litigation signifies the firm's dedication to fortifying its leadership in critical areas of restructuring.

Presiding Partner Peter Furci expressed the importance of these new appointments, stating, "We observe a sustained demand from our clients for enhanced restructuring capabilities, particularly within private capital. The new arrivals and leadership transitions reflect our proactive approach to support clients across the entire investment life cycle."

Co-Chairs of the Restructuring Group, Natasha Labovitz and Sid Levinson, emphasized the exceptional qualifications of the newly appointed partners and their potential to enrich the group's expertise. They commented, "The skills and judgment of Rachel, Sam, and Daniel will significantly bolster our capacity to navigate complex restructurings and distressed scenarios. This alignment in leadership positions indeed enhances our capability to guide clients through such intricate processes."

The appointment of Ms. Albanese as Co-Chair is particularly significant in the context of Debevoise’s succession planning; Ms. Labovitz is set to retire at the close of 2026, having led the charge in transforming the Restructuring Group into a globally recognized practice. Throughout her tenure, she has successfully overseen some of the most challenging restructuring projects worldwide, ensuring a rich legacy for her successors to build upon.

"Debevoise has long been recognized for its robust private equity platform, underpinned by a wealth of legal expertise that spans complex financial matters," remarked Ms. Albanese. As one of the leading voices in corporate restructuring, she will collaborate closely with the new and existing team members to further enhance the firm’s capabilities in this crucial area.

To solidify its strategy in expanding restructuring functions, Debevoise has dedicated leadership for Liability Management and Special Situations, as well as for Bankruptcy Litigation. These appointments are vital for representing clients involved in intricate restructuring efforts, including out-of-court financings and recapitalizations, as well as multifaceted litigation associated with insolvency.

The firm is well-positioned to navigate swift, multifaceted distressed situations—from early-stage liability management to strategic in-court arrangements, ensuring that clients receive coherent and commercially astute advice at every facet of business evolution.

Ms. Albanese brings over two decades of specialized experience in restructuring, offering insights for debtors, creditors, and stakeholders engaged in complex bankruptcy situations, including Chapter 11 filings and cross-border insolvencies. Mr. Newman’s focus on distressed asset transactions positions him uniquely to support companies in critical stages of restructuring, particularly within the biotech and life sciences sectors.

Finally, Mr. Shamah is recognized for his dual expertise in restructuring and liability management, making significant contributions to litigation narratives associated with complex financial instruments. Together, this group of leaders frames a strong foundation for Debevoise’s ongoing commitment to unparalleled service in the restructuring landscape.

The firm remains steadfast in its mission to provide high-caliber legal support essential for navigating the challenges of modern corporate restructuring. By harnessing a diverse portfolio of knowledge and experience, Debevoise & Plimpton LLP is poised to continue leading the way in transformative legal strategies for clients experiencing distress or seeking strategic adjustments in the rapidly changing market.