Michelle Rae Heisner
Baker & McKenzie LLP
Michelle Rae Heisner
Partner
Baker & McKenzie LLP
New York, New York.
Biography:
Michelle is a leading corporate dealmaker specializing in complex domestic and cross-border M&A, capital markets, and strategic transactions. Known in her legal career for her creativity, sharp judgment, and exceptional focus under pressure, she advises companies and boards on their most transformative, high-stakes deals.
What led you to a career in the deal-making industry?
Dealmaking found me by accident. I spent the first five years of my career largely devoted to capital markets work—until a Chinese take-private landed on my desk in Australia. In that moment, my world shifted from black-and-white to color. The creativity and dynamism of M&A have inspired me ever since.
Most memorable deal I worked on...
My most memorable deal was that first Chinese take-private. I was suddenly negotiating core terms across cultures and navigating unfamiliar public-deal norms. It pushed every boundary, taught me more than any classroom, and showed me how exhilarating and fun this work could be.
My number one advice for achieving success in the industry...
Serve your clients relentlessly, in every dimension of the work, and cultivate the grit to keep going even when it feels impossible or unseen—that perseverance ultimately defines lasting success in this industry.
What you most enjoy about your career...
I love the creativity of this career—the constant chance to learn, solve new problems, and make a meaningful difference. Every deal offers a fresh opportunity to think boldly and build something impactful.
Biography:
Michelle is a leading corporate dealmaker specializing in complex domestic and cross-border M&A, capital markets, and strategic transactions. Known in her legal career for her creativity, sharp judgment, and exceptional focus under pressure, she advises companies and boards on their most transformative, high-stakes deals.
What led you to a career in the deal-making industry?
Dealmaking found me by accident. I spent the first five years of my career largely devoted to capital markets work—until a Chinese take-private landed on my desk in Australia. In that moment, my world shifted from black-and-white to color. The creativity and dynamism of M&A have inspired me ever since.
Most memorable deal I worked on...
My most memorable deal was that first Chinese take-private. I was suddenly negotiating core terms across cultures and navigating unfamiliar public-deal norms. It pushed every boundary, taught me more than any classroom, and showed me how exhilarating and fun this work could be.
My number one advice for achieving success in the industry...
Serve your clients relentlessly, in every dimension of the work, and cultivate the grit to keep going even when it feels impossible or unseen—that perseverance ultimately defines lasting success in this industry.
What you most enjoy about your career...
I love the creativity of this career—the constant chance to learn, solve new problems, and make a meaningful difference. Every deal offers a fresh opportunity to think boldly and build something impactful.
