Akin Gump announced that W. Robert Shearer has joined the firm as a partner in its energy practice in Houston. Mr. Shearer focuses on mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, private equity and capital markets transactions for energy, oil field services, manufacturing and technology clients.
Among his recent transactions, Mr. Shearer represented the world’s largest oil field services company in its $430 million purchase of the U.S. pressure pumping and pump-down perforating business of another oil field services company. He has also represented several retail natural gas and electricity providers in numerous acquisitions across the United States. In addition, Mr. Shearer has advised a leading oil field services company in several acquisitions of private companies and a specialized construction services provider in the $350 million purchase of an energy infrastructure services provider.
Mr. Shearer’s clients have also included the nation’s largest independent insurance brokerage business, several gas-to-liquids companies and one of the nation’s largest construction services companies.
“Rob has the transactional background that will continue to serve as a big differentiator for us in Houston and elsewhere,” said Akin Gump chairperson Kim Koopersmith. “Whether with M&A or capital markets deals, for clients in the oil industry or other sectors, Rob has advised some major players in their respective fields. I am delighted to begin the year with such a strong addition to our team and proudly welcome Rob to Akin Gump.”
Christine B. LaFollette, partner in charge of Akin Gump’s Houston office and a member of the energy practice, added, “Rob strengthens our position as a leader in the Houston market for sophisticated corporate transactions, including M&A deals for numerous Houston-based public companies. His background and experience will be tremendous assets for our clients and I am very happy to have him with us.”
“I was drawn to Akin Gump because of its reputation for having a top-tier energy transactional and capital markets practice,” said Mr. Shearer. “The firm’s deep bench in these areas, along with its strong platform across the oil and gas sector, was a big factor in my making this move, and I am excited to be here.”