Webber Wentzel partner, Jesse Watson, is a finalist in the 2019 Individual DealMaker of the Year category, for the second year in a row. DealMaker of the Year has become a particularly competitive field at the annual DealMakers Awards, in association with Ansarada. Each of the finalists has made enormous impact in their work.

The highlight of a stellar 2019 for Jesse was advising on Naspers' ZAR 1.5 trillion listing of Prosus on Euronext Amsterdam and on the JSE. The Prosus listing (which is shortlisted for Deal of the Year 2019) was an incredibly complex and multi-faceted deal running over four years, involving more than 50 lawyers, and multiple jurisdictions and regulators.

Jesse has also advised on many significant and landmark M&A and equity capital markets transactions – both in 2019 and over the past decade. 

His other highlights include advising:

• on Naspers' USD 3.5 billion unbundling and listing of its video entertainment business held by MultiChoice Group
• on the Ethos Capital and Ethos Private Equity investment in Brait
• on Old Mutual plc global group's managed separation (Deal of the Year 2018 - DealMakers)
• Ethos Capital on its listing as the first permanent capital vehicle on the JSE

Jesse's expertise has been recognised by leading legal directories Chambers Global and Legal 500, alongside market commentary such as "very strong attention to detail", "very well liked and trusted by clients" "he’s a rising star".

Webber Wentzel, senior partner, Christo Els: "We are all so proud of Jesse. His commitment to exceptional client service, his strong work ethic and his technical abilities are truly stand-out."

The DealMakers Awards are an important fixture on the corporate finance calendar. The winners will be announced at the Ansarada DealMakers Annual Gala Banquet on 18 February 2020.