Chicago – September 8, 2026 – Michael Black has joined Cooley’s Chicago office as a partner in the firm’s fund formation practice, further strengthening Cooley’s private equity fund capabilities to meet the evolving needs of its growing client base.

“Michael is an outstanding addition to our fund formation team and to Cooley’s Chicago office,” said John Clendenin, partner and chair of Cooley’s global fund formation practice. “He combines a sophisticated technical skill set with a practical, collaborative approach and a deep understanding of the needs of emerging and established private equity managers. Michael is highly regarded in the market and exceptionally effective with clients.”

Black brings a versatile practice spanning the full life cycle of private investment funds. He counsels established and emerging managers on the formation, structuring and operation of private investment funds – including buyout, growth equity, search, debt, real estate and single-asset funds – and special purpose vehicles.

Joining Cooley from Kirkland & Ellis, Black deepens Cooley’s capabilities serving emerging and established sponsors in the middle markets. He has significant experience leading fund closings representing billions of dollars in aggregate committed capital, and advising on the formation of private investment funds, including funds established by first-time sponsors. In 2026, Cooley has continued to strategically invest across its fund formation platform, with Black following the additions of partners Derek Pease, Corey Zarse and Jon Brose.

“A fundraise sets the foundation for a partnership that can shape how a firm operates for the next decade. Middle-market managers need counsel who understand the significance of those decisions and can provide advice tailored to their needs,” said Black. “Cooley combines that judgment with the ability to execute at the highest level.”

The firm’s fund formation practice is among the largest and most active in the country, providing primary counsel to more than 1,000 investment fund clients. The team advises managers across the full spectrum of strategies and fund structures, including private equity, venture capital, growth equity and other private investment funds, supporting sponsors from formation and fundraising through ongoing operations, liquidity solutions and strategic transactions.

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