International law firm Simmons & Simmons has announced the appointment of Oliver Wicker as partner in its leading Structured Finance & Derivatives (SFD) practice in London.
Oliver joins the firm from Slaughter and May on 2 January, where he has been a partner for nine years and is head of the Derivatives practice. He brings deep experience across structured finance, derivatives, and securitisation, and is widely recognised for his work on complex, cross-border financings for major investment banks, as well as for his expertise in regulatory capital relief transactions and securitisations.
Oliver’s arrival marks a significant step for Simmons & Simmons’ continued investment in its structured finance and derivatives practice, where the firm has built a strong reputation advising banks, insurers and funds across the full spectrum of structured products, securitisations, risk transfer and derivatives transactions.
Oliver’s broad skillset and deep market relationships will enhance the firm’s ability to advise clients on the most complex transactions, complementing its existing capabilities and aligned with its sector focus. He will work closely with partners across the SFD group to further enhance Simmons & Simmons’ offering, both in the UK and internationally.
Commenting on his appointment, Oliver Wicker said: "Simmons & Simmons has established itself as a go-to firm for sophisticated structured finance and derivatives work, with a strong client base spanning investment banks, insurers, funds, and other major participants in these markets.
The firm’s focus on complex, high-value transactions, its international platform and its commitment to innovation provide an outstanding platform to develop my practice. I’m excited to join a team with such depth and ambition, and look forward to supporting clients on innovative and challenging deals."
Michael Lorraine, head of the firm’s Financial Markets and Real Estate international practice group and the UK Structured Finance & Derivatives Group, commented: "Oliver is a leading practitioner in structured finance and derivatives, with a track record advising on some of the most technically demanding transactions in the market. His arrival is a huge boost for our practice. His reputation for handling complex, bespoke work and his experience across the full range of structured finance and derivatives transactions will be invaluable as we continue to expand our offering.
Oliver’s arrival is a clear demonstration of our commitment to developing the leading structured finance and derivatives practice, advising on the most challenging and complex matters for our clients internationally, and aligned to our sector focus."
