Top Structured Finance Lawyer Ryan McNaughton Joins Davis Polk as Partner in New York.
Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP has brought on board one of the structured finance world’s standout talents. Ryan McNaughton, a seasoned dealmaker known for navigating complex asset-backed transactions, has joined the firm as a partner in its Finance practice, based in New York.
This move highlights Davis Polk’s commitment to growing its structured finance capabilities and helping clients navigate today’s demand for more customized capital solutions.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Ryan to the firm,” said Neil Barr, Chair and Managing Partner of Davis Polk. “His breadth of experience across structured finance products, especially in esoteric asset classes, adds serious firepower to our global platform.”
A Leader in Esoteric Securitization
McNaughton’s practice centers on helping institutional investors, lenders, private equity funds, and borrowers structure sophisticated deals involving unconventional assets. His work spans sectors like:
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Whole business securitizations
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Digital infrastructure, including data centers
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Music royalties and intellectual property
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Investment fund finance
Before joining Davis Polk, he was a partner at Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft, where he built a reputation for leading innovative securitizations in the asset-backed finance space.
“Clients today want creative, deal-specific solutions,” said Jason Kyrwood, head of Davis Polk’s global Finance practice. “Ryan is one of the best in the business at delivering that, and his arrival takes our securitization capabilities to the next level.”
Meeting the Moment in Private Credit
With private credit booming and the market evolving fast, clients are looking for trusted advisors who can structure deals across a wider variety of asset types. McNaughton’s arrival comes at a time when demand for fund finance and hybrid securitization strategies is on the rise.
“Ryan’s experience is a perfect fit for where the market is heading. He gives us more flexibility and depth, especially as more clients explore complex, cross-asset financings.” said Meyer Dworkin, head of the firm’s Structured Credit group.
A Strategic Fit with a Top-Tier Team
Ryan McNaughton brings not only technical expertise but also a teaching pedigree—he has served as an Adjunct Professor at Cornell Law School, where he co-taught a course on secured transactions.
“Davis Polk’s reputation speaks for itself. The firm is known for handling high-stakes, high-impact transactions, and the finance team is outstanding. I’m excited to hit the ground running and help our clients navigate their most challenging deals.” said Ryan McNaughton.
About Ryan McNaughton
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JD, Cornell Law School (2005)
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BA, Williams College (2001)
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Regularly ranked in Chambers USA as a top securitization attorney
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Known for leading transactions across media, tech, infrastructure, and finance
Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP is a leading global law firm known for its elite client service and deep expertise in corporate law, finance, litigation, and regulatory matters. Founded in 1849 and headquartered in New York City, the firm has a strong international presence with offices across key financial centers worldwide. Davis Polk advises top companies, financial institutions, and governments on their most complex and high-stakes legal challenges.
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