Roger Johnson: The Leading M&A Powerhouse Transforming Global Private Equity
Roger Johnson is regarded as one of the most influential legal minds in the world of international mergers and acquisitions. As a distinguished Partner at Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP, he has built a reputation for leading some of the most complex, high-value private equity transactions across Europe, North America, and beyond. With more than two decades of elite-level experience, Roger Johnson has become a trusted adviser to global financial sponsors, private equity firms, pension plans and alternative asset managers.
Roger Johnson at Paul, Weiss: Global Co-Chair of M&A
In September 2023, Roger Johnson joined Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP, taking on one of the firm’s most prestigious leadership roles. He currently serves as the Global Co-Chair of the M&A Practice and the Co-Head of the London Office, operating from the firm’s primary UK base at 20 Air Street, London.
His role places him at the forefront of the firm’s cross-border dealmaking, where he advises on multi-billion-pound acquisitions, restructurings and complex leveraged transactions. His clients span some of the biggest names in the private equity sector, and he is widely recognised for his strategic insight, commercial acumen and ability to navigate intricate international regulatory landscapes.
Career Journey of Roger Johnson
Early Career and Foundation at Linklaters
Roger Johnson began his legal career at Linklaters, one of the world’s leading Magic Circle law firms. From 2002 to 2015, he served as a Partner in the London office, building deep expertise in private equity, buyouts and corporate advisory work. His 14-year tenure at Linklaters helped shape him into a highly skilled transactional lawyer with extensive experience across European and global markets.
Senior Leadership at Kirkland & Ellis
In January 2016, Roger Johnson joined Kirkland & Ellis LLP, a global powerhouse in corporate and private equity law. Over seven years and eight months, he contributed significantly to the firm’s growth in the UK, advising some of the largest investment firms in Europe and establishing a strong presence in major cross-border deals. His reputation for delivering exceptional results for financial sponsors made him one of the most sought-after lawyers in the sector.
Transition to Paul, Weiss and Leadership Expansion
In September 2023, Roger Johnson made a high-profile move to Paul, Weiss, where he now leads the global M&A strategy. His appointment signalled the firm’s growing ambition in the UK and European markets. Under his leadership, the London office has continued to strengthen its position within international private equity transactions.
Educational Background and Professional Credentials
Roger Johnson holds an LL.B. from Stockholm University, earned in 2002. He is admitted to practise in England and Wales, further cementing his position as a leading solicitor in the UK’s highly competitive corporate legal market.
His commitment to legal excellence and industry leadership has earned him widespread recognition. He has been honoured by The Legal 500 UK, Chambers UK, IFRL1000, and was named among the “Twenty Most Influential Private Equity Lawyers” by Private Equity News in 2024.
Key Practice Areas Led by Roger Johnson
Private Equity M&A
Roger Johnson specialises in advising large private equity houses on high-value transactions, including leveraged buyouts, portfolio company management, joint ventures and exit strategies. His depth of experience helps clients navigate rapidly shifting market conditions and create long-term value.
Cross-Border Corporate Transactions
He has handled numerous multinational acquisitions, representing buyers and sellers across Europe, the United Kingdom, the United States and Asia. His international perspective ensures seamless coordination across jurisdictions.
Restructuring and Strategic Investments
Roger Johnson also provides restructuring advice to major corporations and private equity firms facing financial or operational challenges. His approach is both strategic and commercially aware, ensuring long-term sustainability for his clients.
Notable Client Representation
Working with the World’s Leading Investment Firms
Roger Johnson has represented an impressive roster of top-tier clients, including:
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Bain Capital
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EQT
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H.I.G Capital
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Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan
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Summit Partners
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Triton Partners
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Vitruvian Partners
These engagements have involved multi-billion-pound acquisitions, significant restructurings, high-profile portfolio transactions and strategic investments across healthcare, technology, finance, consumer goods, infrastructure and industrials.
Selected Representative Transactions
Roger Johnson’s transactional highlights include:
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Advising EQT on a €6.8 billion acquisition of Baring Private Equity Asia.
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Leading the CHF 10.2 billion acquisition of Nestlé Skin Health.
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Acting in the £4.5 billion acquisition of Dechra Pharmaceuticals PLC.
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Representing Bain Capital in the acquisition of a controlling stake in Namirial.
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Advising Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan on major international divestments and acquisitions.
These transactions demonstrate his capability to handle the most sophisticated deals across multiple industries.
Recognition and Industry Impact
Roger Johnson’s consistent performance has earned him recognition across major legal directories. His placement in the Hall of Fame for high-value private equity transactions reflects his excellence in advising on deals worth over £500 million. His strategic influence continues to shape the future of M&A and private equity law globally.
Conclusion: Roger Johnson’s Ongoing Legacy
Roger Johnson stands out as one of the UK’s most influential and trusted corporate lawyers. His exceptional leadership, global perspective and unmatched experience in private equity and M&A have positioned him at the top of the legal industry. With a career spanning multiple world-class firms and an impressive portfolio of high-value transactions, his impact on international dealmaking is profound and enduring.
