Previously a senior partner in Kirkland & Ellis in London for around 15 years, Mr Mullarkey has extensive experience in private equity and a large network of key contacts in the London, European and US markets.

His significant client experience includes work with Bain Capital and Apax Partners. He advised Bain Capital on its 2021 acquisition of aero engine manufacturer ITP Aero from Rolls-Royce for €1.7 billion.

He also advised Inmarsat and its controlling consortium of private equity investors on its $7.3 billion combination with Viasat in 2021.

Mr Mullarkey will work in Matheson’s corporate M&A practice and alongside other partners across the asset management, finance and capital markets, financial regulation and tax practices.

Michael Jackson, managing partner of Matheson, said: “I am delighted to welcome Rory to Matheson. His appointment is a significant addition to our growing and diverse team of talent in our London base.

“His exceptional background and skillset offers Matheson the opportunity to further expand our private capital practice across our investment funds, private equity, financial services and tax practices, areas where Matheson is already a market leader, and will allow us to package together a number of key legal services specifically for our private capital clients.”

Matheson relocated its London office to larger premises just over a year ago in response to what it said was significant growth in its only UK office. The firm now employs over 800 people across six offices in Dublin, Cork, London, New York, San Francisco and Palo Alto.