The Leeds office of Cobbetts LLP has further strengthened its corporate team with the appointment of Daniel O’Gorman as partner.

O’Gorman joins from Clarion Solicitors, having previously spent 10 years at Travers Smith in London, where he advised quoted and private companies, financial intermediaries and funds on a range of corporate transactions, specialising in mergers and acquisitions, initial public offerings and other equity fundraisings.

At Cobbetts, he will join an established and highly regarded corporate team, where he will specialise in both public and private M&A and advising clients on public markets transactions and fundraisings. The team recently advised on the AIM admission of Leeds based bus developer and manufacturer, Optare plc.

O’Gorman said: “Cobbetts has a fantastic national and regional reputation for both its M&A expertise and its extensive experience and knowledge in the capital markets. Despite difficult economic conditions, the firm has significantly boosted its AIM client list over the last 12 months, which is something that I am very excited to build on.”

Guy Jackson, head of corporate at Cobbetts in Leeds, said: “In an increasingly challenging economic climate, our diverse offering means that we are in a strong position to respond to the changing needs of both public and private companies.

“Daniel’s experience in corporate and public markets deals will significantly strengthen our capabilities, and we are certain that his technical knowledge and transactional skills will enhance our ability to respond to the changing demands of clients.”

O’Gorman’s appointment follows further lateral hires in Cobbetts’ Leeds corporate team, including the recruitment of M&A and private equity specialist, Abbie Robinson. Abbie joins from Hammonds, where she advised on notable transactions including the management buyouts of Keepmoat and Ainscough Crane Hire for £783 million and £255 million respectively. As well as her M&A work, Abbie will focus on further developing Cobbetts’ already highly regarded private equity offering. 

Jackson continued: “These appointments reflect the reputation that Cobbetts has in the market for attracting the highest calibre of talent. Such key additions to our team will ensure that our clients continue to receive expert advice throughout all levels of the firm.”