Legal Community Mourns the Sudden Loss of Brian Schwarzwalder, Esteemed Gibson Dunn Partner
The global legal community is grieving the sudden and tragic loss of Brian Schwarzwalder, a highly respected partner at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP, based in the firm’s Hong Kong office. His passing—confirmed as a death by suicide—has deeply impacted colleagues and clients alike .
A Career Defined by Excellence and Global Reach
Brian brought nearly two decades of formidable experience in cross-border mergers and acquisitions, private equity, and growth equity investments across the Asia-Pacific region . His work included advising on high-profile and transformative transactions—such as:
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Hahn & Co.’s US$1.5 billion sale of Ssangyong C&E, the largest single-asset GP-led secondary transaction in Asia.
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A US$3+ billion going-private deal for Chindata’s special committee.
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Major co-investment transactions including:
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MBK’s US$6 billion acquisition of Homeplus
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Bain Capital’s US$7.5 billion acquisition of Hitachi Metals
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Bain’s US$480 million investment in IIFL
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KKR’s acquisition of The Executive Centre .
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He was consistently recognized by Chambers Asia-Pacific, The Legal 500, and IFLR1000—notably ranked for nine consecutive years and praised as “practical, commercial and experienced,” as well as “a great relationship partner” .
A Personal Legacy of Humility and Purpose
Brian’s legal expertise was matched by his humility, strategic insight, and warmth. Colleagues and friends remember him as thoughtful, kind, and deeply human—someone who led with both intellect and empathy .
Before joining Gibson Dunn, he served as China Program Manager for Landesa (formerly the Rural Development Institute), a Seattle-based nonprofit devoted to land rights reform—highlighting his longstanding commitment to purpose-driven impact .
A Sobering Reminder of Mental Health Realities
His untimely passing has ignited reflection within the legal profession on the silent, often hidden mental health challenges faced by those who seem most successful. Tributes from Gibson Dunn express deep sorrow:
“We are devastated by the loss of our dear friend and partner… His contributions to the firm and to the legal profession were immeasurable.”
Cherished Beyond the Boardroom
Brian is survived by his wife, Helen, and their children, Amelia and Jasper, who live in Hong Kong. The family has requested privacy during their time of grief and suggested that those wishing to honor his memory consider donations to mental health or suicide prevention organizations .
Memorial details will be announced privately in due course.
Summary
Brian Schwarzwalder was not just a brilliant attorney—it was his integrity, mentorship, and empathy that made him exceptional. His passing is a profound loss to his family, firm, and the international legal community. May his memory inspire continued advocacy for mental health and compassion within high‑pressure professions.