Stephen Lucas was plucked from Weil Gotshal & Manges for a hefty compensation package that totaled $3.9 million, according to The Lawyer. Now, with his three-year deal ending, Lucas set his sights on more.
Kirkland & Ellis reportedly offered Lucas a compensation package in the range of $4 million, with the possibility of it being double that amount.
One recruiter labeled Lucas the following: “He’s an absolute superstar, the key superstar in finance in London.”
A partner from the firm also agreed: “He’s a bit of a human dynamo. Lucas is highly prized in the market, not so much for his business, but more for his profile and image. He has a great CV and reputation.”
Lucas handed in his notice last week at Weil. The move took many by surprise at both firms. At Kirkland, no one knew about the negotiations taking place between the firm and Lucas.
Kirkland has been looking for a major name to strengthen its private equity practice on the banking side of operations and the addition of Lucas should fill that need.
Lucas is familiar with one aspect of the firm, London Chief Graham White. Lucas and White worked together at Linklaters. Once everything comes to a head, Kirkland hopes that this compensation package will be worth it and that Lucas will stay with the firm for the long-haul.
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