Chris is a Partner in the Corporate department and a US-qualified lawyer with a focus on supporting high-growth, emerging companies, as well as advising investors.
Chris has extensive experience guiding startups and emerging businesses through all stages of growth, from initial formation to successful exits. He offers strategic counsel on structuring and securing financing, and on navigating the complex US corporate and regulatory environment. His expertise spans the formation of corporate entities, designing capital structures, implementing equity incentive plans, and negotiating key agreements, including employment contracts and intellectual property protections.
Chris has a particular focus on assisting non-US founders and companies seeking to enter the US market, including accessing US capital markets. He regularly advises on structuring US holding companies, executing Delaware flips, and aligning businesses with the expectations of US investors. His holistic approach covers corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and preparing companies for venture capital and private equity funding. Chris ensures that businesses are well-positioned to attract US investment and scale their market presence effectively.
In addition to his work with startups, Chris represents a diverse group of investors, including venture capital firms, corporate funds, family offices, and angel investors, both in the UK and internationally. He provides practical, strategic guidance to help investors de-risk their investments and structure deals for long-term success.
Key Experience
- Advising US and UK tech and life science startups on funding rounds ranging from Series Seed to Series E.
- Advising UK startups seeking entry into the US market, including formation of US entities, compliance with US corporate law and regulations.
- Advising investors (venture capital funds, corporate venture capital funds, angel investors and family offices) on their investments into US and UK companies.
- Assisting US and UK tech and life science companies with exit strategies, including sales and IPOs, ensuring compliance and maximizing value during transitions.
- Representing a UK-based corporate venture capital fund through its formation and investment strategies, including opportunities to invest in US startups.
- Advising a US venture capital adviser on various secondary transactions involving early-stage companies, enhancing liquidity and investment returns.
- Advising a FTSE 5 company on the strategic disposition of its Russian business, valued at £600 million, including cross-border regulatory considerations.
- Advising a US private equity fund sponsor on the formation and marketing of multiple US and offshore feeder funds, focusing on attracting UK and international investors.
Career History
Partner, Mishcon de Reya LLP
Partner, Hatchling Law Lt
Senior Legal Counsel, Btomorrow Ventures Ltd
Senior Associate, Curtis Mallet-Prevost, Colt & Mosle LLP
Associate, Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati
University of California, Berkeley School of Law
University of Dublin, Trinity College
Credentials
Admitted to CA Bar
Admitted to NY Bar