Ronald W. Frank joined Blank Rome as a partner in the Corporate, M&A and Securities group in the firm’s Pittsburgh office. Previously he was a partner at m Reed Smith for more than 16 years.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ron to Blank Rome,” said Alan J. Hoffman, Blank Rome’s chairman and managing partner. “For decades, Ron has managed large, complicated financial projects for his clients, many of which span the energy and environment, manufacturing, and technology sectors. Ron will be an excellent addition to Blank Rome’s Pittsburgh office as it continues to grow on the corporate side and will further strengthen our national energy practice.”

Frank has extensive experience in corporate finance and international transactions, and has advised domestic and international clients on the structuring and financing of joint ventures, mergers and acquisitions, privatization transactions, the development of distribution networks and the negotiation of sales agency, distribution and licensing agreements.

Frank has also structured general partnerships, limited partnerships and limited liability companies. He has developed strong relationships with foreign counsel in many countries, and frequently assists clients in gaining effective local representation.

“In a volatile economy, it is critical to have a counselor with as much experience as Ron,” said Alan H. Lieblich, co-chair of the Corporate, M&A and Securities Practice group. “We’re anticipating more mergers and acquisitions in the energy sector as oil and gas bankruptcies continue to rise. Ron is well positioned to advise clients on their business strategies and subsequently structure transactions that align with the organizations’ goals.”

In the energy sector, Frank has served as the general partner of oil and gas drilling programs, all of which were successfully funded, completed and operated. In addition, Frank has represented buyers and sellers of oil and gas interests in equity and cash roll-up transactions. He has also represented a large gas utility in the bidding for gas local distribution companies being privatized in Argentina and represented such utility’s energy subsidiary in gas exploration and development transactions in Europe.