Leicester firm Spearing Waite has launched a dedicated banking and finance team with the appointment of specialist banking lawyer, Haydon Simmonds, as a partner.

Haydon has spent the past six years in London, most recently at Addleshaw Goddard and, prior to that, at Gateley plc. He qualified at Shoosmiths in 2008.

In his new role at Spearing Waite, Haydon will lead and develop the firm’s specialist banking and finance team, working closely with corporate group head Martin Smith and real estate finance head, Nisha Gohel.

Tom Bower and Haydon Simmonds

Tom Bower and Haydon Simmonds

Commenting on his appointment, Haydon said: 'This is an incredibly exciting opportunity for me at a law firm that is already highly regarded for its corporate and real estate capability. I have been inspired by the Spearing Waite culture which encourages ambition and entrepreneurialism, and I am very much looking forward to establishing the banking and finance team as a leading light in the Leicestershire and East Midlands region.'

Haydon’s experience spans advising both borrowers and lenders across a wide range of domestic and cross-border corporate banking and real estate finance transactions.

Recent projects for borrowers have included advising on the debt finance package for a €1.1 billion reverse takeover and its subsequent refinancing. He has also advised a national housebuilder on the restructuring of their £260 million facilities.  

Recent projects for lenders include a number of leveraged and acquisition finance facilities, alongside general corporate banking facilities, provided by both banks and alternative lenders.

Martin Smith, head of Spearing Waite’s corporate group, said: 'Haydon brings an impressive pedigree in banking law and is an important new string to our bow. Banking brings its own set of complexities and, as businesses grow, they need the expertise of a specialist team to advise on their borrowing.

Senior partner Tom Bower said Haydon’s appointment meant Spearing Waite is now the only Leicester firm with a banking law specialist: 'I’m delighted that Haydon has joined us. His appointment means that clients involved in raising finance or banks providing finance can access specialist advice that is normally only available in the major cities - and at city rates.'

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