Orrick Adds Technology Transactions Rising Star in London


September.09.2020

Orrick announced today that technology transactions advisor Faraaz Samadi has joined the firm as a partner in London. He joins from Milbank.

“Tech transactions is an essential skill set for our Tech & Innovation practice – critical to advising clients on sell-side, buy-side and strategic commercial transactions. We are delighted to add a rising star of Faraaz’s caliber to our team,” said Chris Grew, Orrick Board Member and head of the firm’s European Venture Capital practice, which has ranked #1 for the past 18 consecutive quarters (Pitchbook).  

Faraaz advises on complex commercial and technology transactions, technology services agreements, data privacy, IP licensing and strategic alliances. He has acted for technology companies at all stages and has deep experience in identifying and resolving issues in cross-border technology transactions. Faraaz has practiced in London, Singapore and Shanghai. 

“Orrick is the market leader in the European venture capital space, working with some incredibly exciting companies. It’s also one of the most innovative and forward-looking law firm platforms, and I’m excited to work with the London and global team,” said Faraaz. 

Faraaz’s arrival coincides with the firm’s addition in the U.S. today of Shana Solomon, a seasoned advisor to companies in the life science, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. She joins Orrick from biotech startup Velocity Sciences where she served as General Counsel. 

“Complex commercial transactions are a foundation pillar of our work for the world’s most innovative companies and continues to be key area of investment for us globally. We’re excited to welcome Faraaz and Shana and look forward to announcing more additions to our global tech transactions team soon,” said Matthew Gemello, leader of Orrick’s global Corporate practice.

Faraaz is the 9th addition to Orrick’s London office this year. In the Tech & Innovation area, he follows the additions of top cyber & data privacy lawyers Keily Blair and James Lloyd, and regulatory and fintech lawyer Marco Boldini, all from PwC. The firm also added a market-leading, five-partner team from Watson Farley: energy and infrastructure advisors Evan Stergoulis, Simon Alsey, Ravinder Sandhu and Adam Smith, and real estate advisor Simon Folley.