Will Axtell
Partner
Services
Corporate
Will is a partner in the corporate team, specialising in buying and selling companies, fundraisings, spin-outs and other corporate law matters. He has particular expertise in the technology sector and spent many years advising fast-growing tech companies.
Life sciences is another area of focus and Will has acted on numerous Oxford University spin-outs, including Vaccitech, now Barinthus Biotherapeutics, the co-inventor of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine. Will’s clients include start-ups and high-growth companies as well as high net worth individuals and successful entrepreneurs. He particularly enjoys helping entrepreneurs achieve a successful exit to a larger buyer, either trade or private equity.
I have a commercial approach and focus on what is important to my clients and aim to build strong, long-lasting relationships. A transaction can often be an intense and demanding experience, and I enjoy helping clients navigate this often bumpy landscape towards a successful outcome.
The Legal 500 lists Will as a leading partner for corporate law. He joined Penningtons Manches Cooper in 2014 from another leading UK law firm. Earlier in his career, he spent several years as an in-house corporate lawyer with Vodafone, working mainly on high-profile mergers and acquisitions. He trained, qualified and spent several years at a Magic-Circle firm.
Recent work highlights
UK/US cross-border deal
Life sciences transaction
Marina technology transaction
Oxford University spin-out
Imperial College spin-out
UK/US cross-border transaction
Battery technology sale
UK/US life sciences deal
UK/US cross border acquisition
Battery technology sale
UK/US life sciences deal
UK/US cross border acquisition
External recognition
What people are saying
Will Axtell is a very good lawyer, he clearly knows his stuff. He is very easy to work with and is superbly professional.
Provides sound, authoritative advice – exactly the sort of person you want standing by your side during a complicated transaction.
Will Axtell leads a team who are very familiar indeed with the M&A process and all the complexities that can arise. In a time-constrained transaction, Will and colleagues did not miss a beat.
Will Axtell stands out as someone very commercial and very helpful.
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