Introduction
Michal Berkner is one of the most accomplished corporate lawyers in Europe, renowned for her exceptional work in mergers and acquisitions (M&A). With a career spanning decades, she has earned respect and recognition from business leaders, investors, and global corporations. Michal Berkner’s extensive experience and deep understanding of international law have positioned her as a trusted advisor in high-value, cross-border transactions, particularly within the life sciences, healthcare, and technology sectors.
Early Life and Education
Michal Berkner was born in Israel and later moved to the United Kingdom, where she established her professional career. Although she keeps much of her early personal life private, her dedication to academic and professional excellence is well-documented. She completed rigorous legal training and qualified as a solicitor of the Senior Courts of England and Wales—a significant credential that enabled her to operate at the top level of corporate law in one of the world’s most competitive legal markets. This foundation became the stepping stone for Michal Berkner’s rise in the global legal arena.
Career Beginnings
Michal Berkner started her career in the international legal sphere at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP—a globally recognized powerhouse based in New York. Here, she developed expertise in cross-border transactions and complex M&A deals. Working in such a fast-paced environment allowed Michal Berkner to gain a comprehensive understanding of global corporate structures and legal frameworks.
Later, she joined Cooley LLP, another major international law firm known for its work in technology and life sciences. At Cooley, Michal Berkner refined her skills and built a strong reputation for delivering innovative legal strategies. These experiences at elite firms helped her shape her unique professional style and set the stage for her future leadership roles.
Building a Reputation
Michal Berkner quickly became known for her balance of technical precision and commercial insight. She is admired for her pragmatic, solutions-oriented approach and her ability to manage complex negotiations involving multinational corporations, investors, and regulatory bodies. Her calm yet firm negotiation style allows her to secure outcomes that align with her clients’ strategic goals.
Throughout her career, Michal Berkner has advised on a wide variety of deals, including:
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Public takeovers and private acquisitions
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Joint ventures and corporate restructurings
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Cross-border financings and IPOs
Her comprehensive understanding of global M&A structures has made Michal Berkner a trusted figure in high-stakes business transactions across multiple industries.
Leadership at Major Firms
In 2024, Michal Berkner joined McDermott Will & Emery, a leading US-based international law firm, as a senior transactions partner. Her appointment was seen as a major strategic gain for the firm, strengthening its London M&A practice and expanding its European influence.
By March 2025, Michal Berkner transitioned to Baker McKenzie—one of the largest and most globally recognized law firms. As a partner in Baker McKenzie’s M&A team, she brought decades of top-tier experience and a strong track record of advising on complex, high-value transactions. Her move was widely regarded as a testament to her rising influence and leadership in the international legal community.
Recognition and Awards
Michal Berkner’s professional excellence has earned her numerous accolades. She has been ranked in Chambers UK, one of the most prestigious legal directories, for her consistent performance and exceptional client service. These rankings reflect her expertise and leadership within the M&A sector.
Moreover, Michal Berkner has been featured in the Financial Times HERoes Women Role Model List, honoring her as one of the top female leaders promoting diversity and inclusion in business. Her recognition as a champion for women in law underscores her commitment not only to legal excellence but also to fostering equality and mentorship in the corporate world.
Professional Style and Approach
One of the qualities that distinguishes Michal Berkner is her collaborative yet strategic approach to law. Unlike traditional adversarial practitioners, she emphasizes building consensus and maintaining professionalism while safeguarding her clients’ interests. Clients value her clarity, her ability to simplify complex legal issues, and her focus on practical business outcomes.
Michal Berkner’s versatility allows her to advise both large multinational corporations and emerging start-ups. Whether it’s a billion-dollar takeover or a first-round investment, her advice is always tailored, insightful, and commercially sound.
Sector Expertise: Life Sciences and Technology
Michal Berkner’s career has been closely linked with two rapidly evolving sectors—life sciences and technology. Her deep knowledge of these industries, both heavily regulated and innovation-driven, gives her an edge in managing deals that involve complex intellectual property and regulatory considerations.
In the life sciences field, Michal Berkner has advised pharmaceutical companies, biotech innovators, and healthcare investors on strategic mergers, acquisitions, and collaborations. Her work contributes to shaping the future of global healthcare and medical innovation.
In technology, she has guided clients through high-value acquisitions, funding rounds, and partnerships involving emerging technologies, intellectual property rights, and digital transformation. Her insight into these industries has made her one of the most sought-after legal advisors in Europe.
Personal Life and Public Image
Michal Berkner is married to Robert Jenrick, a well-known British Conservative politician. Although her personal life occasionally draws public attention, she maintains a strong professional identity independent of her husband’s political career. Known for her discretion and professionalism, Michal Berkner prefers to keep the spotlight on her legal work and contributions to the corporate world rather than her personal affairs.
Mentorship and Advocacy
Beyond her impressive deal-making career, Michal Berkner is a mentor and advocate for diversity in the legal profession. She actively supports initiatives that empower women lawyers and promote gender equality in corporate law. Her mentorship of young professionals reflects her belief in creating inclusive pathways for future leaders in law.
Challenges and Achievements
Operating at the highest levels of global law comes with significant challenges—cross-border regulations, cultural differences, and high-stakes negotiations. Michal Berkner has consistently demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and exceptional leadership in overcoming these obstacles. Her contributions to landmark deals have helped redefine industries, even though many of these transactions remain confidential.
Her ability to lead, innovate, and inspire has made Michal Berkner an enduring figure in international M&A law.
Conclusion
Michal Berkner’s career is a testament to dedication, intelligence, and integrity. From her early days in Israel to her prominent roles in London’s leading law firms, she has built a reputation that extends far beyond borders. Michal Berkner exemplifies what it means to be a modern corporate lawyer—strategic, ethical, and visionary. As industries like technology and life sciences continue to evolve, her expertise will remain essential to shaping the next generation of global business transactions.
FAQs About Michal Berkner
Q1. Who is Michal Berkner?
Michal Berkner is a highly respected corporate lawyer specializing in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), known for her work across life sciences, healthcare, and technology sectors.
Q2. Where does Michal Berkner work now?
As of 2025, Michal Berkner is a partner at Baker McKenzie, one of the world’s largest and most prestigious law firms.
Q3. What are Michal Berkner’s main areas of expertise?
Michal Berkner specializes in cross-border transactions, public takeovers, joint ventures, and corporate restructurings, particularly within life sciences and technology.
Q4. Has Michal Berkner received any awards?
Yes, she has been recognized in Chambers UK and featured in the Financial Times HERoes Women Role Model List for her excellence and advocacy for diversity in business.
Q5. Is Michal Berkner involved in mentoring young lawyers?
Absolutely. Michal Berkner is committed to mentoring and supporting women in law, helping to promote inclusion and diversity within the legal profession.
