Holland & Knight has bolstered its leading corporate practice with the addition of Paulo Varnieri as a partner in Washington, D.C. Mr. Varnieri represents clients in connection with cross-border and domestic corporate transactions, including mergers and acquisitions (M&A), private equity investments and financing, particularly in the infrastructure and transportation sectors in the U.S. and Latin America. Prior to joining Holland & Knight, he was General Counsel for CCR USA.

CCR USA, a division of Brazil-based CCR S.A., is where Varnieri oversaw all legal aspects of the company’s M&A, investments, joint ventures, financing and airport development projects in the region. CCR is one of the largest infrastructure companies in Latin America. Mr. Varnieri practiced at three international law firms, in both Sao Paulo, Brazil, and New York City, before joining CCR USA.

“Paulo’s practice is multifaceted and spans industries and geographies that are strategic priorities for our clients and our firm,” said José Sirven, chair of Holland & Knight’s Business Section. “His addition positions us to increase our work in significant infrastructure projects across the U.S., and his deep experience in Brazil provides our Latin America Practice with another seasoned practitioner who can help our clients achieve their strategic objectives in the region.”

“My time at CCR gave me extensive insight about the infrastructure and transportation sectors in the United States and Latin America,” Mr. Varnieri said. “I’m looking forward to using the knowledge I gained, as well as my law firm experience, to help further grow the domestic and Latin America transactional practices at Holland & Knight, where I have many good friends and former colleagues.”

Mr. Varnieri earned an LL.M. degree from The George Washington University Law School and an LL.B. degree from Pontifícia Universidade Católica.