Dodson Gallegos Joins Akin: Enhances Real Estate and Infrastructure M&A Practice

Advisor - People | May 12, 2025 | Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld

Dodson Gallegos Joins Akin: Enhances Real Estate and Infrastructure M&A Practice

Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld has announced the addition of two distinguished lawyers, Wendy Dodson Gallegos and Jason Wagenmaker, formerly of Mayer Brown, to enhance their real estate funds and infrastructure M&A capabilities. Gallegos, previously co-leading the global private funds and real estate practice at Mayer Brown, brings extensive experience in forming diverse real estate private equity funds, while Wagenmaker enriches Akin's infrastructure M&A strategies with a robust background in advising on complex transactions across multiple sectors. Their arrivals are expected to strengthen Akin's already notable standing in global investment management and corporate law. The firm's practice is recognized for advising on complex investment vehicles and structures worldwide, providing crucial insights into emerging trends across asset classes. Gallegos and Wagenmaker together contribute their significant expertise and enhance Akin’s services for alternative asset managers. The firm positions itself as a global leader in navigating the intricacies of real estate funds and providing strategic solutions globally.

Sectors

  • Legal Services
  • Real Estate
  • Infrastructure

Geography

  • United States – The article discusses Akin Gump, a US-based firm and the geographical relevance of Chicago as the base for the new hires.
  • Global – Akin Gump operates globally and the new hires are expected to expand the firm's international capabilities.

Industry

  • Legal Services – The article focuses on the recruitment of prominent lawyers into Akin Gump, emphasizing the legal services industry.
  • Real Estate – Real estate is highlighted as a sector where new hires will focus, particularly in private equity fund formation.
  • Infrastructure – The article mentions infrastructure M&A as a key area of focus for the newly acquired personnel.

Financials

    Participants

    NameRoleTypeDescription
    Wendy Dodson GallegosNew Hire - Real Estate Funds PracticePeopleFormer co-lead of Mayer Brown's real estate funds practice, she joins Akin Gump to enhance its offerings.
    Jason WagenmakerNew Hire - Infrastructure M&APeopleBrings nearly 20 years of infrastructure M&A experience to Akin Gump, enhancing its strategic transactions.
    Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & FeldEmployerCompanyA leading global law firm enhancing its real estate funds and infrastructure M&A practices.
    Mayer BrownFormer EmployerCompanyThe previous firm where both Gallegos and Wagenmaker held leadership roles.