Orrick Expands with New LA-based Venture Capital Team
Advisor - People | Feb 11, 2025 | Orrick
Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP has significantly expanded its Los Angeles venture capital practice by recruiting a 13-member team from Gunderson Dettmer. The new team includes prominent tech company and venture capital advisors Mike Heath, Cody Peterson, Tim Greene, and Nick Feldman as partners, along with nine associates. This strategic acquisition reinforces Orrick's position as a major player within the dynamic Southern California startup ecosystem. The team will offer their expertise in guiding venture-backed companies and investors, focusing on high-growth sectors such as AI, fintech, crypto, energytech, and more. With a previous track record of working with hundreds of startup firms and numerous VC funds, the new group aims to enhance Orrick's comprehensive service portfolio. Orrick's Chair Mitch Zuklie emphasized the transformative nature of this move as part of their commitment to innovation in the tech ecosystem. This merger not only adds to Orrick's tech capabilities but also reflects the firm's continuous investment in top legal talents and strategic growth.
Sectors
- Legal Services
- Technology
- Venture Capital
Geography
- United States – The article centers on Orrick's expansion in Los Angeles, California, which is a significant hub for technology and venture capital activity.
Industry
- Legal Services – The primary focus of the article is on the expansion and strategic hiring in Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe, a legal services firm.
- Technology – The new team specializes in advising high-growth tech companies, including sectors like AI, fintech, and blockchain.
- Venture Capital – The article involves advisors who cater specifically to venture-backed companies and venture capital funds.
Financials
- 29 – Orrick advised on 170+ M&A transactions totaling $29+ billion.
- 45 – Orrick advised on 1,000+ venture and growth financings with a total value of $45+ billion.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP | Acquiring Company | Company | A multinational law firm expanding its venture capital practice in Los Angeles. |
| Gunderson Dettmer | Previous Employer | Company | The previous law firm employer of the new 13-member team joining Orrick. |
| Mike Heath | Partner | Person | A strategic partner leading the new team and recognized as a Next Generation Partner. |
| Cody Peterson | Partner | Person | A former Gunderson Dettmer co-founder and hiring partner specializing in startup community mentoring. |
| Tim Greene | Partner | Person | A Chambers-recognized tech transactions advisor returning to Orrick after previously serving as a partner. |
| Nick Feldman | Partner | Person | Advisor on high-growth companies from inception to exit with wide-ranging industry expertise. |