Freshfields appoints Charles Hayes and Patrick Cichy as Co-Heads of Global Transactions

Global law firm Freshfields has appointed partners Charles Hayes (London) and Patrick Cichy (Hamburg; Frankfurt) as Co-Heads of Global Transactions, effective 1 May 2026. 

London based Hayes and Hamburg based Cichy will jointly take the helm, succeeding Julian Pritchard who has completed his term as Global Transactions Head and will focus on his client practice. Hayes and Cichy will continue to maintain their client practices alongside their leadership roles.  

During his tenure, Pritchard played a central role in strengthening the firm’s global transactional offering, deepening crosspractice collaboration and expanding the group’s presence across key markets. 

Both preeminent practitioners, Hayes has served as Global Co-Head of Private Capital, and Cichy as Leader of the Global Transaction practice in Germany and Austria, and Co-Head of the firm’s Global Markets and Nordic Group. 

Senior Partner Georgia Dawson commented: “I am delighted to appoint Charles and Patrick to lead the Global Transactions practice. They bring complementary skills, deep international experience and a shared commitment to collaboration that exemplifies the best of Freshfields. I also want to acknowledge the outstanding contribution made by Julian during his term. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping the strength, cohesion and strategic direction of the practice.” 

Hayes and Cichy said: “It is a privilege to be entrusted with the leadership of the group. We inherit a practice with an exceptional global platform, built on deep client relationships and truly integrated teamwork. We look forward to building on this strong foundation with our colleagues around the world and continuing to deliver innovative, seamless service for our clients on their most complex matters.” 

Pritchard added: “Charlie and Patrick are outstanding successors for the next chapter of our Global Transactions practice. They are preeminent practitioners who are laser focused on ensuring Freshfields is building the firm of the future, including continuing to develop a fantastic multigenerational bench of talent dedicated to client excellence. I have no doubt they will make a tremendous impact on our group, building on our successes, our exceptional teamwork and pushing forward our strategic vision.” 

Global law firm Freshfields ranks as a leading adviser on complex, strategic M&A and private equity transactions, securing standout positions across Europe, the US, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East & Africa.