Grafton Cederburg

Company: Houthoff
Job Description: Senior associate
Age: 32
Years of working experience in M&A: 8

What are the specialties of this talent?
Grafton has lots of specialties! Would we need to describe him in a few words, most accurate would be like a ‘socially conscious, responsive and responsible hard-working power house’. But even that doesn’t do him justice. Grafton is always fully in control of the process and on top of every single detail. He truly cares about the processes, he ensures he knows what type of client he is working with, what the client desires and most important he is very creative in offering solutions to any issues that may pop-up. One of the most envy-inducing features of Grafton is his effortless charisma. Even the worst news goes down well because of how he delivers it. Grafton’s life motto could just as well be: the tone sets the music. An asset that all his clients, his team and the lawyers he works with love and it truly helps to smoothen any M&A transaction process! 

How does the talent distinguish itself from its peers?
Those who meet Grafton will not easily forget doing so: one is immediately struck by his vibrant personality and endless energy. These assets inspire those around him to strive for excellence, while his humor creates a welcoming atmosphere, making even the most demanding projects feel manageable. In M&A this is a rare and most valuable characteristic.      

Grafton is authentic and not afraid to share his opinion. He is not driven by power or standing. There is no room for prejudices. People who show biases, whether it being on the basis of gender, race, sexuality or otherwise, will be educated and asked to broaden viewpoints. He does all this with a smile and a lighthearted spirit. He possesses the power to convince in the most natural way. 

What impact does the talent have within the organization?
At Houthoff, Grafton is a source of inspiration for many. In addition to his authenticity, vibrant personality and endless energy, Grafton has a unique ability to connect with clients and team members alike. This is what makes him a great team player and highly qualified as an M&A lawyer.     Grafton is one of the initiators of Houthoff’s Diversity & Inclusiveness Committee, advocating for initiatives that create a more equitable workplace. Despite his busy M&A schedule, to date he is a member of this committee and remains actively involved in Houthoff’s DE&I initiatives. In his own words: “Simply because inclusion is the key to growth.”

What impact does the talent have outside the organization?
As set out above, Grafton has been one of driving sources in the Houthoff DE&I Committee and has put effort, enthusiasm, and creativity in various DE&I dimensions not only within our firm, but also in the broader legal field. He actively participates in Stichting Forward, the Dutch legal LGBTI network, Stichting Lequal (a legal network aimed at advancing bicultural lawyers), and more. In these initiatives he promotes his strengths: pursuing a more inclusive culture and working environment and bringing people together.     

In the words of Boudewijn Smit (board member at Stichting Forward): “Grafton is a powerhouse of energy, with a contagious enthusiasm that draws people in and makes working with him a joy. His leadership in initiatives like Forward and Lequal, which both promote inclusion and diversity in the legal profession, reflects his deep commitment to making a positive impact beyond just delivering results. Coupled with his ability to seamlessly adapt and thrive in new environments, as he did during his secondment in London, Grafton’s drive and talent make him a standout candidate for the Best Young M&A Lawyer Award.”  

To what extent does the talent make a difference when working with clients?
Grafton consistently delivers outstanding service to his clients, going above and beyond to ensure their needs are met. Imagine an M&A advisor who, regardless of the time of the day, is always available to assist its clients with a smile, while maintaining the high standards that our firm requires. That is Grafton.      

This is best explained by his clients and colleagues whilst seconded to Ashurst London:     

Eliot Hodges (Investment professional at HG capital) says: “Working with Grafton was a real pleasure. His diligent approach and technical expertise is balanced with an outgoing, down to earth and energetic style, that helped us deliver our transaction goals.”     

Markjan van Schaardenburgh (Partner at Ashurst London) says: “Grafton is great to work with, hands-on and always available.  He handles complex issues smoothly and efficiently and able to distil his advice into commercially relevant legal solutions for his clients.”

We have received extensive praise for Grafton’s contributions. The quotes have been included throughout the answers of the previous questions. In addition, please find below a reference of Enrique Mozo from Tepsa Infra:     

I am the Business Development Director of a EU midstream leader. I worked with Grafton Cederburg in an acquisition of an asset during ~6months in 2025, Houthoff was acting as our legal advisor assisting us in legal DD and SPA drafting. The acquisition turned out to be quite complex, with significant unexpected issues that were raised during the process. During the 6 months, Grafton was my main point of contact, I know I could count on him to solve any legal-related issue that could arise. His sharpness, reactivity, and predisposition to help, many times thinking outside-the-box were crucial for the deal to materialize. In my position I get to work with several legal professionals with different seniorities and profiles, and I am sure that Grafton will become a referent in the market in the years to come     

Also please find below a reference of Michiel Prinsze from Osmosis:  I’ve had the pleasure of working with Grafton on our recent transaction. We were very pleased with his support. He acted very smart and perceptive, hardworking and was always on top of the details, without losing sight of the bigger picture. What I really appreciate is his calm, pragmatic approach — even under pressure, he keeps things moving smoothly and constructively. On top of that, he’s simply great to work with: approachable, reliable and genuinely pleasant in every interaction. 

Why does the talent deserves this nomination?
Grafton has worked hard for every achievement in his life. Every accomplishment in his life is his own. Simply put, there is no one who deserves it more than Grafton. Grafton’s nomination will further strengthen his -and others- in becoming an example to young fully self made lawyers with a more diverse background and more aware of setting an example in further broadening the social engagement of law firms. In a predominantly homogeneous M&A environment, the new generation will hopefully follow his lead to stay true to oneself and respectful towards others.