North Africa’s Legal Titans: The Managing Partners Shaping the Future of Law
By: Bryan Miller
In the dynamic legal landscape of North Africa, several managing partners have distinguished themselves through exemplary leadership and significant contributions to the profession. Below is a curated list of five such individuals who have been recognized for their outstanding achievements:
1. Kamal Nasrollah – Baker McKenzie (Casablanca, Morocco)
As the head of Baker McKenzie’s Casablanca office, Kamal Nasrollah is renowned for his expertise in mergers and acquisitions and corporate law. He has been instrumental in guiding major corporations through investment opportunities in Morocco and the broader North and West African regions. In 2024, Nasrollah was honored as “Partner of the Year (North Africa)” at the African Legal Awards, reflecting his pivotal role in the legal sector.
2. Michael Hilton – Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom (Abu Dhabi, UAE)
Michael Hilton, formerly the regional managing partner for the Middle East and North Africa at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, has recently taken the helm of Skadden’s new Abu Dhabi office. With a distinguished track record in mergers and acquisitions, Hilton advised on transactions totaling £30.5 billion in the previous year. His leadership is anticipated to significantly bolster Skadden’s presence and influence in the North African legal market.
3. Thomas Wigley – Trowers & Hamlins (Muscat, Oman)
Serving as the Resident Managing Partner in Oman, Thomas Wigley has been recognized for his exceptional work in projects and infrastructure law. In January 2025, he was awarded “Projects and Infrastructure Lawyer of the Year” at the Legal 500 Middle East and North Africa Awards. Wigley’s leadership and expertise have been pivotal in advancing Trowers & Hamlins’ reputation in the region.
4. Dounia Mansour – King & Spalding (Dubai, UAE)
Recently promoted to partner in January 2025, Dounia Mansour has been acknowledged for her proficiency in investment funds. She was named “Investment Funds Leading Associate of the Year” in the MENA region by Legal 500. Mansour’s adeptness in structuring and establishing investment funds has been invaluable to clients navigating the complex financial landscapes of North Africa.
5. Ezra Davids – Bowmans (Johannesburg, South Africa)
As the chairman and senior partner of Bowmans, Ezra Davids has been instrumental in steering the firm to prominence across the African continent, including North Africa. Under his leadership, Bowmans secured seven awards at the 2024 African Legal Awards, notably the prestigious “African Law Firm of the Year.” Davids’ strategic vision has solidified the firm’s footprint and influence in the region.
These distinguished managing partners exemplify excellence and leadership in North Africa’s legal sector, contributing significantly to its growth and global recognition.
