Dr J. Jekkie Kim, a nationally recognized life sciences transactional lawyer has joined WilmerHale as a partner in its Palo Alto office.
“Jekkie joins at an exciting time for our Corporate Life Sciences practices, and we are thrilled to welcome her,” said WilmerHale Managing Partner Anjan Sahni. “Her addition further bolsters a corporate practice that is flourishing both on the West Coast and across the country.”
“Jekkie’s experience leading a range of life sciences transactions complements the extensive capabilities of our life sciences team,” said Mick Bain, Chair of the firm’s Transactional Department. “We are thrilled to welcome her aboard.”
Dr. Kim advises life sciences companies, along with their investors and lenders, on a broad range of issues. Her practice focuses on strategic licensing and collaboration matters, including university spin-outs and partnerships with pharmaceutical firms; monetizing royalties and product revenue streams; cross-border joint ventures, including in China; carve-out asset sales; and complex commercial transactions such as R&D collaboration, manufacturing, supply, and distribution agreements. She also handles life sciences matters involving digital health and artificial intelligence and provides support for life science clients executing capital markets deals, M&A transactions, emerging company and venture capital matters, debt financings, and more.
With her background as a medical doctor and clinical experience, along with her service as a member of the Institutional Review Board at Massachusetts General Hospital, Dr. Kim provides a unique perspective to assist clients navigating complex life sciences transactions. Dr. Kim formulates innovative, efficient, and effective strategies, quickly grasping the intricacies of her clients' businesses and offering advice tailored to their specific needs.
“I am delighted to be joining WilmerHale – a firm whose depth and expertise in life sciences is an ideal place for me to expand my practice. WilmerHale’s collaborative approach to client service and strong background in helping life science companies leverage cutting edge technologies, including those involving digital health and artificial intelligence approaches is unique in the marketplace,” said Dr. Kim. “I am excited to be part of the firm’s continuing growth in California.”
Dr. Kim joins at a time when WilmerHale is continuing to pursue strategic growth in its Corporate Practice. In June, preeminent life sciences lawyer Judith Hasko joined as a partner and Co-Chair of the firm’s Life Sciences Practice. Later that month, Amanda Albert, a leading employee benefits lawyer, joined WilmerHale as a partner in its Tax Practice.
Dr. Kim earned her MD and LLM from Yonsei University, an MBA from Case Western Reserve University and her JD from Boston University School of Law.
Before joining WilmerHale, Dr. Kim was a partner in the Silicon Valley office of another major international law firm.