What's Happening?
Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe has expanded its mergers and acquisitions (M&A) team in Texas by hiring Nick Woodruff as a partner in the energy and infrastructure practice in Houston. Woodruff, who previously
worked at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, is the first of several anticipated hires as Orrick aims to capture a share of the growing AI data center market. The firm plans to add more energy-focused M&A attorneys in Texas and across the U.S. as the state is expected to significantly increase its data center market share by 2028.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of Orrick's M&A team in Texas highlights the firm's strategic focus on the burgeoning energy sector, particularly in relation to AI data centers. As Texas is poised to double its data center market share, Orrick's move positions it to capitalize on the increased demand for legal services in energy development, financing, and M&A. This expansion reflects the competitive nature of the legal market in Texas and underscores the importance of having a robust team to secure deals in a rapidly evolving industry.
