Pre-eminent African law firm Bowmans continues to expand the depth and diversity of its M&A Practice in South Africa. The firm today announced the appointment of senior M&A lawyer Deepa Vallabh as a partner in its Johannesburg office with effect from 1 November.

Bowmans’ chairman and senior partner, Ezra Davids, says: ‘Deepa has 23 years’ experience in corporate and commercial law with a particular focus on cross-border transactions. She joins us at an opportune time in the ongoing development of our M&A offering, which we are strategically growing in an effort to increase our market share.’

This is Bowmans’ second M&A appointment at partner level in just two months. In September, Andrew Davidson joined Bowmans in Durban. In April this year, M&A partners Angela Simpson and Janine Howard joined the firm from Baker McKenzie.

Vallabh specialises in domestic and cross-border mergers and acquisitions, BEE, capital markets and private equity transactions, corporate reorganisations, and restructurings. She is experienced in a range of sectors including agriculture, FCMG, insurance, manufacturing, mining, and technology, telecommunications, media and communications.

She has BSc, LLB and LLM (Tax) degrees from the University of the Witwatersrand.

Head of Corporate/ M&A at Bowmans, Tholinhlanhla Gcabashe, says: ‘Deepa is known for being multitalented and for her strong work ethic. Her experience will be an asset to our M&A Practice.’

In September 2024, Bowmans was named African Law Firm of the Year by Law.com International at the African Legal Awards ceremony held in Johannesburg.