InternationaL

Deborah has extensive involvement in cross-border transactions and investments:

• Representation of major German conglomerate in acquisition of U.S. company and in ongoing operations, expansions and economic development incentives

• Representation of major pharma company co-headquartered in U.S. and U.K. in restructuring complex licensing and long-term supply arrangement with French company

• Representation of U.S. based tobacco processor in agricultural joint ventures in Malawi and Brazil

• Representation of U.S. based steel wire and parts manufacturer in split-up divestiture to two Canadian companies with ongoing shared services arrangements

• Representation of U.S.-based biopharma companies in development and commercialization agreements with pharma partners in Japan, U.K., and Ireland

• Representation of Canadian medical services company in prospective joint venture with Top 10 U.S. health system

• Representation of Top 10 U.S. public pension fund in numerous investments in off-shore alternative investment funds, including funds of funds, buyout funds, and venture funds

• Evaluation as director of investments or acquisitions by off-shore partners and ongoing oversight and evaluation of off-shore operations

She earned the distinction of Fellow, Chartered Institute of Arbitrators in 2019. She completed CPR’s Advanced Arbitration Training, with a concentration in international arbitration, in 2018. She was an arbitrator at the Willem C. Vis Commercial Moot (West) in 2020 (online) and in 2019 (Vienna). She is a member of USCIB, Arbitral Women, the Atlanta International Arbitration Society and the Charlotte International Arbitration Society.

Health Care

Deborah maintains a steady focus on innovation and improvements in the health care sector. She currently serves on three health care-related corporate boards in addition to her dispute resolution practice. One designs and manufactures clinical products; one is a provider of substance abuse and behavioral health services; and the third is an organization supporting dentists in identifying and implementing products and services. From 2016 to October 2017, Deborah was CEO of an investor-backed company developing and commercializing a mobile behavioral health app. Deborah’s interest in health care innovation was fueled by challenges faced by companies to control health care costs while providing good outcomes. She audited a graduate level course in health policy and management and is active in health innovation conferences.

Pharma / Bio

Deborah represented numerous pharmaceutical and biotech companies of many sizes and stages of development in a broad range of transactions: mergers and acquisitions; licensing; commercialization and development; long-term supply agreements. She has developed and implemented novel management rights for taking over manufacturing facilities during periods of contractual and specifications noncompliance. She understands the fundamental interrelationships of companies to develop, produce and distribute products

Family Business

Deborah’s involvement with multi-generation family businesses provides a deep appreciation for the dynamics that may arise as well as the particular values those organizations may have. She serves on the board of a family-owned business that has a majority of independent directors and all professional management. Deborah implemented a first-time governing board for a 100-year old, third-generation business with $1B in revenues. She previously served as legal counsel and trusted advisor to numerous family businesses in their growth, acquisition, and strategic development.