Lazard, Inc. has announced the appointment of Will Thompson as Managing Director in its Healthcare division, set to begin on 4th November 2024. Based in London, Thompson will be integral to Lazard’s financial advisory practice for Europe, which is led by Cyrus Kapadia and Jean-Louis Girodolle. He will also join the firm’s global healthcare group, headed by David Gluckman, enhancing Lazard’s established presence in the healthcare sector.
Thompson’s return to Lazard marks a significant chapter in his career, having previously worked at the firm from 1998 to 2004. He arrives at Lazard after a notable tenure at Barclays, where he served as Managing Director and Head of European Healthcare for nearly a decade. His extensive experience also includes key roles in the healthcare practices at prominent financial institutions such as UBS, Close Brothers, and Morgan Stanley.
His appointment comes shortly after Michele Colocci joined Lazard in June as Vice Chairman of Investment Banking and Managing Director of Healthcare. These strategic hires reflect Lazard’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its capabilities in the healthcare sector and enhancing its overall product and sector teams.
Lazard’s healthcare franchise has seen significant expansion in recent years, underpinned by a robust global network of sector-focused bankers operating across 22 countries. Since 2020, the team has advised on transactions totalling over $245 billion in aggregate value, positioning the firm as a leading player in the healthcare advisory space.
Mr. Thompson’s expertise in Healthcare Services will be crucial in reinforcing Lazard’s already strong position in the global healthcare market. His extensive industry experience and deep understanding of the healthcare landscape will contribute to the firm’s ongoing success as it navigates an increasingly complex market environment.
In his new role, Thompson will focus on providing strategic financial advice to clients in the healthcare sector, addressing their unique challenges and opportunities. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to enhance Lazard’s advisory capabilities in a sector that continues to evolve rapidly, driven by advancements in technology, regulatory changes, and shifts in consumer demand.
Cyrus Kapadia and Jean-Louis Girodolle expressed their enthusiasm about Thompson’s return, highlighting the wealth of knowledge and experience he brings to the firm. “We are excited to welcome Will back to Lazard,” they stated. “His extensive background in healthcare will be invaluable as we continue to grow our practice and deliver exceptional value to our clients.”
Thompson’s appointment is part of a broader strategy by Lazard to attract top-tier talent and invest in its advisory services, ensuring it remains at the forefront of the financial services industry. The firm is committed to providing innovative solutions and insights to its clients, particularly in the dynamic healthcare sector, which remains a key focus area for Lazard’s growth.
As Lazard prepares for Thompson’s arrival, it reinforces its dedication to maintaining its leadership position in healthcare financial advisory services, with a focus on delivering excellence and fostering long-term relationships with clients in this vital sector. For more information, please visit www.lazard.com.
