Philippa “Pippa” Bond

Bond, a capital markets partner with the Los Angeles office of Kirkland & Ellis, has been helping her clients navigate the hurdles of 2020 while also adjusting to her move from Proskauer Rose LLP.

“For me, personally, this past year has been one of tremendous change and opportunity,” said Bond. “It was a big decision to leave Proskauer. I’m really happy I made the move because it gave me the opportunity to expand my practice in ways that are new and interesting.”

Bond said she’s been able to broaden her relationship with Ares Management Corp. and its portfolio companies. She’s represented Ares since its 2014 initial public offering and continues to serve among its primary outside counsel.

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, she’s worked on several significant retail restructurings, including Chapter 11 filings for Neiman Marcus Ltd. LLC, Tailored Brands Inc., and Stage Stores. She also handled a series of private exchange offers for Guitar Center, the world’s largest musical instruments retailer and an Ares portfolio company.

Bond’s clients span industries, including retail, transportation, real estate, and financial services. While no industry has been immune to the implications of the pandemic, retail has suffered a decline in consumer demand.

“I think the pandemic has affected every sector. I suspect there aren’t many companies that haven’t been affected by it. Obviously, retail has experienced a lot of difficulty,” Bond said. “Some retailers are in a position to cope with it better than others. For retailers with a significant brick and mortar presence, it goes without saying, almost all of them were affected significantly.”

Beyond her work in corporate finance and securities, Bond also lends her talents to the firm’s pro bono work in areas including immigration and education. She recently offered oversight and feedback on Kirkland & Ellis associates’ challenge of a deportation order. Though the case didn’t resolve in their favor, Bond said it was a good learning experience.

“It’s certainly different from the work we do on a regular basis. It gives associates a chance to sink their teeth into a matter they might not otherwise and gives them an opportunity to take the lead,” Bond said. “In this environment, we can use our skills for the betterment of the community.

— Jennifer McEntee