Pitch Best Young M&A Lawyer 2022: Sanne de Graaff, Pellicaan Advocaten

Company: Pellicaan Advocaten 
Job Description: Laywer / Associate M&A  
Age: 32 
 
What are the specialties of this talent? 
Sanne is extremely talented in due diligence processes, both in drafting of the due diligence report and tweaking all input to a concise and easy to read analysis for the reader, as well as conducting die diligence research herself. Sanne always finds the needles in the haystack. By being focused on understanding the due diligence findings as though she did the entire due diligence research herself, Sanne is able to incorporate all her findings in a complete and thorough SPA, in which her clients interests are respected in the best way possible. She is fast, concise and to the point. She is available and delivers her work product extremely fast. 
 
How does the talent distinguish itself from its peers? 
Sanne distinguishes herself by making herself irreplaceable for clients. Once she does a deal for a client, they no longer want another lawyer, period. Her way of working suits the business of the clients, as she takes away all burden and ensures that her clients' matters are taking care of so they can focus on doing business. She is smart and sharp as a knife and not hesitant to cut to the chase. In addition, because of the strategic alliance of Pellicaan Advocaten with Mazars, Sanne is able to understand relevant financial and tax aspects of the deal as well. 

What impact does the talent have within the organization? 
Sanne has a major impact within the organization, because she handles the most complex deals independently and involves juniors wherever possible in order for them to be able to learn about relevant aspects of the deal. 
 
What impact does the talent have outside the organization? 
Sanne contributes to the legal profession by adding value to each deal. 

To what extent does the talent make the difference to clients? 
She is definitely a trusted advisor and for this reason, clients love to work with Sanne. She is always available, even when she has aKendrick Lamar concert scheduled. Clients know exactly what to expect from Sanne because she approaches all deals in the samemanner. Because Sanne already has an impressive track record, she knows how to incorporate the specifics of the deal in thetransaction documentation in a pragmatic way. She is a deal maker pur sang.

Why does the talent deserve this nomination? 
Without Sanne at the office, we would be nothing. She is the constant factor that everyone needs in their team. With her efficient approach and open attitude, everyone loves to work with her and for her. She is open to give and receive feedback and always is a pleasant team member. Clients are super happy to hear Sanne is handling her deal and as such, she has a longstanding relationship with all clients she advises. Even in the M&A market where specifically sellers are mostly one time clients, Sanne keeps a close relationship and is involved in further steps. 

Any references or recommendations from clients or (colleagues)? 
All colleagues want to give references – everyone is super happy to have Sanne in the team. Would be good to have someone nominated from a smaller firm!