Iradj Nazaryar

Company: A&O Shearman
Job Description: M&A lawyer
Age: 32
Years of working experience in M&A: 7

Bio
Iradj holds a Post-Graduate Course in Mergers and Acquisitions from Grotius Academy, graduating cum laude in 2022. He also earned two Master of Laws (LLM) degrees from Utrecht University, one in Law and Economics (2015-2016) and another in Dutch Civil Law (2014-2015), both with cum laude honors.

Iradj has over 7 years of experience at A&O Shearman, where he currently serves as a Senior Associate specializing in Corporate M&A and Equity Capital Markets. He began his career at A&O Shearman as an Associate in February 2017, progressing to his current role. In mid-2023, he completed a six-month secondment at A&O Shearman in Singapore.

What are the specialties of this talent?
Iradj specializes in both Private M&A and equity capital markets and has a client base with both private capital and (listed) corporates. His M&A practice includes both Dutch and international (style) multi-country M&A in competitive and exclusive situations. On the ECM front it includes IPOs, secondary issuances and ongoing advice to listed companies on reporting requirements.

His international profile and skills were enhanced by his stint in South-East Asia, which saw him working across various emerging markets and has given him a unique perspective on advising across diverse cultures and legal landscapes. This, together with his clear commercial focus, drive and exceptional soft skills, allows him to play a deal maker role in transactions, consistently delivering outstanding outcomes for his clients.

How does the talent distinguish itself from its peers?
Iradj distinguishes himself through his unique blend of intellect, practical problem-solving abilities, and a confident, can-do mentality. He possesses an innate desire and ability to understand and resolve complex issues, (often pre-empting potential challenges before they escalate). For instance, during a cross-border M&A transaction, Iradj coordinated the process of obtaining regulatory approvals in multiple jurisdictions by working closely with local counsel. He proactively flagged potential impacts on transaction terms and proposed effective solutions to address these issues.

His open and proactive communication style, coupled with his resilience and flexibility under pressure, is impressive, especially for his age. And his optimistic and empathetic nature, combined with a keen sense of humor and strong social skills, make him a trusted and natural advisor to clients.

Iradj is ambitious and driven with a clear and determined pursuit of personal development. This is evident in his approach to deals but is also evidenced through completing the Grotius M&A course, a secondment in Singapore, and his participation in the Roots Inspire leadership development program.

What impact does the talent have within the organization?
Iradj brings boundless energy and positivity. His infectious laughter and humor create a relaxed and motivating work environment, and his self-deprecating demeanor endears him to his colleagues.

He is known for his team-oriented approach, and proactively addresses internal issues and spearheads initiatives to enhance departmental processes. His dedication to building and sharing knowledge within the organization are striking. He has been important in bringing structure to the equity capital markets group, especially the less senior members through developing and organizing know-how materials, training junior members and leading know-how sessions. Iradj’s passion for his fields of expertise and his commitment to mentoring colleagues foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

What impact does the talent have outside the organization?
Outside A&O Shearman, Iradj is equally impactful. His personal background and experiences have fueled his commitment to giving back to the community. He is a mentor for the “Giving Back” program, a role that is particularly meaningful to Iradj, as he sees a reflection of his own journey in the students he mentors. He understands the unique challenges they face and is passionate about providing the support and guidance that he once received, believing that mentorship can be a transformative experience for both the mentor and the mentee.

Additionally, he has volunteered in a pro bono project aimed at obtaining Special Immigrant Visas for Afghan refugees. His personal experience as a refugee from Afghanistan has made him conscious of the challenges faced by individuals in similar situations. This project is deeply personal to him, as it allows him to give back to a community that he feels a profound connection to. Iradj’s involvement in this project was not just about providing legal assistance; it was about offering hope and a new beginning to those who have endured significant hardships.

For Iradj, these activities are more than just volunteer work; they are a way to honor his past and contribute to a better future for others. By leveraging his skills and experiences, Iradj strives to create meaningful change and inspire others to do the same.

To what extent does the talent makes the difference to clients?
Iradj makes a profound difference to clients through his natural style and unwavering confidence in handling client interactions. He excels in managing the most challenging aspects of deals, ensuring clients feel supported and understood throughout the process. His empathetic approach and willingness to tackle problems head-on, even in the face of disagreement, demonstrate his commitment to client satisfaction and successful outcomes.

His unique combination of private M&A and equity capital market expertise allows him to provide “one-stop-shop” support to clients from acquisition to exit: whether by way of private sale or listing (and thereafter in ‘life as a listed company’). This holistic approach is rare in the M&A field and highlights his versatility and deep understanding of the various stages of a business’ lifecycle. His ability to seamlessly integrate these services ensures that clients receive consistent and expert guidance throughout their business journeys, making him an invaluable asset in the M&A and ECM communities.

Why does the talent deserves this nomination?
Iradj embodies the essential qualities of a rising star in the M&A field. His combination of drive, intelligence, practical problem-solving skills, and empathetic nature make him invaluable to his team and clients. His proactive approach to both internal and external challenges, along with his ability to motivate and energize those around him, further demonstrate his credentials for this recognition. Iradj’s personal journey and dedication to continuous improvement add another layer to his compelling case. And finally, his involvement in mentoring and non-profit work highlight his commitment to giving back to the community, making him a well-rounded and deserving candidate for the Best Young M&A Lawyer award.