Linklaters has expanded its corporate practice in Spain with the hire of Sebastián Albella, who re-joins the firm as an M&A partner. Previously a partner at Linklaters for more than 10 years, Sebastián re-joins after a period at Latham & Watkins, following his time as Chairman of the Spanish Securities and Exchange Commission (CNMV) to which he was appointed by the Spanish Government in 2016.

Sebastián is the latest Linklaters partner alumnus to return to the firm. Late last year Linklaters welcomed back Betty Yap and Carl Fernandes, who re-joined the firm’s corporate and financial regulation practices in Hong Kong.

Sebastián has an established reputation as one of Spain’s leading corporate lawyers. With more than 30 years of experience across private practice and the public sector, he has represented a full range of global investors and corporates in many of the highest-profile corporate deals in the Spanish market.

Sebastián has extensive experience in representing large companies and private equity firms in private M&A transactions, alongside advising on general corporate matters across a variety of key industries such as energy, infrastructure, and financial services. Sebastián also has a deep knowledge of financial regulation and capital markets transactions.

Combined with the strength of the firm’s existing M&A team in Madrid, comprising Victor Manchado, Lara Hemzaoui, Carmen Burgos and Esteban Arza, Sebastián’s appointment consolidates Linklaters’ market-leading position.

Sebastián will join the firm in mid-December, when he will no longer be subject to any restrictions resulting from his time at the CNMV.

Víctor Manchado, head of Linklaters’ M&A practice in Spain, commented:

“The addition of Sebastián puts our practice in an unrivalled position to advise listed and public companies on the biggest M&A transactions in the market.”

Sebastián Albella, added:

“I couldn’t be more pleased to re-join Linklaters. The firm is a key player, both in the Spanish M&A market and globally, and I return with the intention of contributing to its continued success.”

José Giménez, managing partner of Linklaters in Spain, said:

“We are very excited about Sebastián’s return. His decision reinforces that we are one of the most attractive firms in the market. Having the best lawyers, who share our culture and values, continues to be a key objective for us.”