BonelliErede grows in PE with Agopyan and Colantuono

BonelliErede has strengthened its Milan team with the addition of two new partners, Franco Agopyan and Giovanni Colantuono, both from Chiomenti.

BonelliErede grows in PE with Agopyan and Colantuono

Franco Agopyan joins as a partner and co-leader of BonelliErede's private equity Focus Team, alongside Eliana Catalano, the team’s current leader and managing partner of the firm.
Agopyan, who has practiced law since 1999, is highly regarded in both Italy and internationally for his impressive track record in private equity and M&A. Chambers and Partners and Legal 500 have consistently recognized him as one of Italy’s top private equity professionals. Giovanni Colantuono also joins as a partner, bringing extensive experience in private equity transactions involving both Italian and international funds. Prior to joining Chiomenti in 2017, he spent six years at Sullivan & Cromwell in New York and London. He is licensed to practice in Italy, as well as in New York and as a Solicitor in England and Wales.

Executives comments

Eliana Catalano, managing partner of BonelliErede, commented: “The arrival of Franco and Giovanni will further enhance our private equity Focus Team, which will now feature 11 M&A partners. Together with Stefano Nanni Costa, Giulia Bianchi Frangipane, and the rest of the team, we aim to strengthen our position as a trusted partner for both international and Italian clients in private equity transactions in Italy.” Massimiliano Danusso, BonelliErede’s president, added, “Franco and Giovanni’s international expertise will support our growing cross-border relationships with law firms and funds. We are delighted to welcome them at this exciting time of expansion for our firm.” Reflecting on the move, Agopyan stated, “BonelliErede was a natural choice for the next step in my career, aligning perfectly with my ambitions for both Italian and international growth. I look forward to leading an exceptional team alongside Eliana and collaborating closely with Stefano, Eliana, Giulia, and all of our colleagues across our practices and locations.”