Joshua Thompson joined Sidley Austin in New York as a partner in the firm’s global finance group. Thompson was previously a partner at Shearman & Sterling, where he was head of the firm’s global leveraged finance group and head of private capital.

“Josh is a widely recognized finance lawyer who has built a deep practice in leveraged finance,” Kevin Blauch, leader of Sidley Austin’s global finance group, said. “We have many private equity and private capital clients that look to us for advice in leveraged finance and high-yield debt investment. Josh’s arrival strengthens our finance offerings to provide clients with the highest quality service.”

Thompson focuses his practice on acquisition financings and other leveraged lending, which includes leveraged buyouts, tender offers and other going private transactions. As a counsel to lead arrangers, direct lenders and private equity sponsors, Thompson is involved in all aspects of structuring, negotiating and documenting transactions. He also has experience in structured financings, asset-backed lending, second lien financings, mezzanine investment, restructuring, Chapter 11 plans and the acquisition of troubled companies.

“We’re delighted that Josh has chosen to join our robust global team,” Sam Gandhi, managing partner of Sidley’s New York office, said. “Attracting top-tier talent like Josh symbolizes our continuous commitment to strategic growth, especially in key markets where our clients conduct business.”