François APRIL

Partner, Linklaters

François is a partner in the energy & infrastructure practice of Linklaters’ Paris office. François focuses on project financing in the energy, mining and infrastructure sectors. He also has in-depth knowledge of infrastructure assets, including airports, ports and roads and power distribution. 

François advises sponsors, investors (including investment funds) government entities and lenders on all aspects of projects, including finance and contractual arrangements, as well as regulatory issues, on projects in France, Francophone Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Canada, Latin America and Asia-Pacific. 

Before joining Linklaters, François worked as an associate, Office of the General Counsel, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. He worked for four years in the firm’s London office before moving to Paris in 2002. 

François is ranked as a leading lawyer in all major professional directories, such as The Legal 500 EMEA, IFLR1000 and Chambers quoting that he is “technically strong and persuasive whether representing a sponsor or a bank. He's a real deal maker” and that he is “highly commended by sources for his "impressive knowledge of renewables". 

François is a member of France Énergie Éolienne (the French Renewable Energy Association), which brings together experts and industry members to promote wind energy in France, and the Syndicat des Énergies Renouvelables (Renewable Energies Professional Association). He is also a member of the Paris Regional Council of the University of Ottawa. 

François studied law at the University of Ottawa, Canada, and holds a master’s in law from University College, London. 

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