Christopher O. Bell focuses his practice on representing private equity funds and their portfolio companies on leveraged finance transactions, with an emphasis on debt commitments and credit facilities for leveraged acquisitions, including acquisition financings and asset-based lending facilities. He also represents sponsor portfolio companies on their working capital facilities and their ongoing compliance under those facilities. Chris has worked extensively on various recapitalizations, refinancings and related transactions, including incremental facilities. He holds a J.D. from Fordham University School of Law, an M.A. from New York University and an A.B. from Harvard University.

Representations

Ares Management in acquiring Convergint Technologies.

Blackstone in acquiring the chemicals business of Orica Limited, Serco India and several real estate assets.

Feldenkreis Holdings in acquiring Perry Ellis International, Inc.

KKR in acquiring Del Monte Foods, Capsugel, Academy Sports, Samson Resources, The Brickman Group and Goodpack.

Speaking Engagements

“Private Debt,” SCI’s 3rd Annual Middle Market CLO Seminar, November 2022

“Going from Strength to Strength: Private Credit Post 2020,” With Intelligence Private Markets Operational Leaders’ U.S. Summit 2021, November 2021

“Investor Views: Private Credit as a Recession-Proof Asset Class — Too Early to Call?” Alternative Credit Council Global Virtual Summit, April 2021

“Private Debt,” SCI's 2nd Annual Middle Market CLO Seminar, February 2021

“Finance Strategies and Structures,” SRZ 30th Annual Private Investment Funds Seminar, January 2021

Prior Experience

  • Partner, Proskauer Rose 
  • Partner, Simpson Thacher & Bartlett