Financial news magazine The Deal has named Kimberly Smith and Emily Watson to its list of "Top Women in Dealmaking" for 2023. The Deal's list honors "exemplary women in the legal profession" who are "setting the bar for the next generation of attorneys."

Kimberly, a Chicago partner and global chair of Katten's Corporate Department, leads 150 attorneys throughout the US, UK and China. With extensive experience representing private equity funds, family offices, and other investors, she works with clients on leveraged buyouts, strategic acquisitions and sale transactions across multiple industries. A recognized thought leader, Kimberly recently spearheaded an industry survey resulting in "Katten's 2023 Middle-Market Private Equity Report," which revealed that middle-market private equity firms have mixed expectations for the US market in 2023 amid high inflation and concern that interest rates will continue to climb.

In addition to her practice, Kimberly serves on the firm's board of directors, is a mentor through the Women's Leadership Forum and is on the corporate board of directors of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago.

Emily, a Corporate partner based in Chicago, represents private equity sponsors, family-owned and closely held businesses, entrepreneurs, investors and management teams across various industries. Her practice focuses on domestic and cross-border deals, private equity and general corporate matters, including leveraged buyouts, divestitures, joint ventures, control and growth equity financings, non-control and co-investments, and other complex M&A and commercial transactions. Emily also serves as outside general counsel for PE clients and their portfolio companies.

"The Deal Honors Top Women in Dealmaking 2023," The Deal, March 30, 2023

"Women in Dealmaking: The Deal Recognizes Katten's Kimberly Smith," The Deal, March 30, 2023

"Women in Dealmaking: The Deal Recognizes Katten's Emily Watson," The Deal, March 30, 2023

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