Dechert Continues to Enhance Structured Finance and Private Credit Capabilities with Addition of Brian Whaley
NEW YORK, March 31, 2025 — Dechert LLP has announced the addition of Brian Whaley as a partner in its global finance group. This strategic move further amplifies the firm’s offerings in private credit finance, securitization, and structured and derivative products. Mr. Whaley will bring his expertise to the firm’s New York office.
Mr. Whaley arrives at Dechert from a renowned international law firm. His experience includes advising underwriters, issuers, and investment managers on the intricacies of private credit vehicle financings, collateralized loan obligations (CLO) transactions, and various asset-backed securities transactions. His portfolio also extends to representing investment banks and other clients on matters involving credit derivatives, swap transactions, restructurings, and asset repackaging programs.
Mark Thierfelder, co-chair of Dechert, expressed enthusiasm about the addition, stating, “Brian’s extensive knowledge in securitization, structured and derivative products, and private credit further strengthens our capabilities and reinforces our dedication to delivering innovative and effective solutions for our clients in this area.”
The sentiments were echoed by Jay Alicandri, co-chair of Dechert’s corporate and securities group, who remarked, “We are thrilled to have Brian join the firm. His specialist expertise and strong industry connections make him a tremendous asset to our team. Brian’s insights and experience will bolster our ability to achieve outstanding outcomes for our private credit clients, further cementing our firm as a leader in this area.”
In response to his new role, Mr. Whaley commented, “Dechert’s robust private credit platform and commitment to excellence make it the ideal firm for fostering innovation and providing the highest caliber of client service. I am eager to work alongside my new colleagues and contribute to the firm’s ongoing success in the private credit sector.”
This strategic hiring follows the recent addition of Craig Cohen to Dechert’s New York office. Mr. Cohen joined as a partner in the firm’s global tax group, specializing in CLOs, structured credit, and securitization, highlighting Dechert’s commitment to expanding its expertise in these areas.
Dechert’s legacy of advising private credit clients spans over three decades, during which it has helped them navigate and thrive as the industry evolved into a complex and expansive US$3 trillion market. The firm’s comprehensive approach covers the full spectrum of strategies and sub-strategies, including asset-based, distressed debt, permanent capital, direct lending, subordinated debt, specialty financing, special situations, and venture debt. With over 80% of the top 100 private credit firms as clients, Dechert offers unparalleled expertise in fund formation, financing, regulatory, M&A, and tax across global markets.
Dechert is recognized as a leading global law firm advising asset managers, financial institutions, and corporations on strategic business management and capital issues. With capabilities that range from high-stakes litigation to complex transactions and regulatory matters, Dechert provides innovative answers to seemingly unsolvable problems, new market deal structures, and rights protection in extreme situations. The firm operates through nearly 1,000 lawyers across 16 international offices, with a focus on financial services, private equity, private credit, real estate, life sciences, and technology sectors.
