Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP

Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP is a market leader in executive compensation and employee benefits, particularly in high-stakes M&A and private equity transactions. The New York-based team advises on incentive structuring, tax implications, and SEC and ERISA compliance. Recent highlights include advising Paramount’s special committee on its pending $28bn merger with Skydance Media and EchoStar on its $26bn combination with DISH Network. The practice also excels in cross-border deals, such as WestRock’s $20bn merger with Smurfit Kappa, which required navigating jurisdictional complexities. Headed by Eric Hilfers , the firm remains a key adviser on management retention strategies and shareholder approvals, particularly in private equity-backed transactions. Key figures include Jonathan Katz  focusing on delivering key advice on employee agreements and incentive programs,  Amanda Hines Gold specializes in negotiating severance packages, SEC filings, and the administration of equity incentive plans. Meanwhile Matthew Bobby, who is experienced in structuring compensation packages for high-value deals with strong emphasis on executive employment contracts and SEC disclosure intricacies.