Title: Partner and Co-Head of Capital Markets Group
Company: Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP
Location: Chicago, Illinois, United States
Edward Best, partner and co-head of the capital markets group at Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Lawyers for dedication, achievements, and leadership in the legal field.
Mr. Best is a distinguished partner and co-head of the capital markets group at Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP, where he has been serving since 2024. With an impressive career spanning over 35 years, he has established himself as an expert in capital markets, securities and funds. His role involves providing practical advice to clients, representing issuers and underwriters in securities offerings, and handling corporate governance and compliance matters. Mr. Best’s commitment to mentoring is also evident in his efforts to guide the careers of his colleagues, ensuring they have excellent opportunities to succeed.
Headquartered in Chicago, Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP is an expansive law firm that offers innovative legal solutions for complex business issues across various markets and industries. Mr. Best is one of over 1,200 attorneys across 15 Willkie Farr & Gallagher offices in six different countries, including Italy, Belgium and London. The firm provides counsel in approximately 45 practice areas.
Before joining Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP, Mr. Best was a partner at Mayer Brown, a leading international law firm, in Chicago from 1994 to 2024. During his tenure there, he played a pivotal role in building a successful team of capital markets lawyers, which is one of his most notable accomplishments. Earlier, Mr. Best began his career at Mayer Brown as an associate between 1986 and 1994, where he honed his skills and laid the foundation for his future success. In addition to his legal practice, he is a sought-after speaker at continuing legal education events and the Practicing Law Institute.
Educationally, Mr. Best holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 1982 and a Doctor of Jurisprudence, cum laude, from Loyola University Chicago School of Law in 1986. His academic achievements have shaped his legal career, providing him with a strong foundation in law and political science that has supported his professional endeavors.
Mr. Best’s professional affiliations include membership in the American Bar Association, the Committee on Federal Regulation of Securities, and the Committee for Jewish Education in Chicago. These memberships reflect his dedication to staying informed about industry developments and contributing to the legal community and beyond.
Beyond his professional life, Mr. Best is actively involved in civic-minded organizations, such as pro bono legal work. He is also committed to supporting local food organizations and soup kitchens. Furthermore, Mr. Best generously supports the Solomon Schechter Day School.
Mr. Best’s expertise has been recognized with numerous accolades, including being named among the Top 35 Capital Market Players in the United States and receiving the Capital Markets Lawyer of the Year award in Illinois.
Mr. Best’s future plans include striving to develop a thriving capital markets practice at his new firm while creating opportunities for his team to excel. He attributes much of his success thus far to several factors, emphasizing the importance of the incredible mentorship he has received, both from within his firm and from clients who have generously guided and supported him. Additionally, Mr. Best credits hard work and persistence as significant contributors to his achievements.
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