SJ Berwin has advised the European arm of private equity giant Hicks Muse Tate & Furst on its formal split from its US parent, securing a highly strategic appointment for the City firm’s transactional practice.

SJ Berwin private equity chief Jonathan Blake and partner Richard Watkins led the team advising the high profile buy-out house, with Weil Gotshal & Manges advising on the US side.