Ilkka Perheentupa
Ilkka is the Managing Partner of Avance. He represents fund and industrial clients in mergers and acquisitions, investment and capital markets transactions, as well as shareholder, contractual and corporate matters. He has spent a significant part of his career in a corporate, capital markets and private equity practice in New York and London. Industries that Ilkka has recently served include private equity and venture capital, energy and infrastructure, gaming, media and entertainment, and technology. In addition to a Finnish law degree, Ilkka is also admitted to the New York State Bar.
Avance Attorneys Ltd, Managing Partner 2022–
Avance Attorneys Ltd, Partner (2011–2021)
Goldman, Sachs & Co., Merchant Banking – Principal Investment Area, New York (2010–2011)
Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP, New York, Senior Associate, Transactions – Private Equity (2006–2010)
Hannes Snellman Attorneys Ltd, Helsinki, Associate (1998–1999), Senior Associate, Mergers and Acquisitions, Capital Markets (2002–2006)
Latham & Watkins LLP, London, Capital Markets Associate (2000–2002)
LL.M. (Corporate), NYU Law School and Georgetown University, Fulbright Scholarship, 2000
Master of Laws, University of Helsinki, 1999
MBA studies at NYU Stern and Helsinki Business Schools
Member of the Finnish Bar Association
Member of the International Bar Association (IBA)
Ilkka Perheentupa is recognized as a “Leading partner” in Commercial, corporate and M&A.
“Ilkka Perheentupa is an extremely versatile and knowledgeable M&A lawyer. In addition, he has excellent knowledge of the energy and infrastructure business field and the related legal framework, which is very much appreciated. Ilkka understands the client’s needs and offers excellent availability and responsiveness.”
“Ilkka Perheentupa is the man to negotiate complex M&A transactions. You want him on your side.”
The Legal 500 2026
Ilkka Perheentupa is ranked in Band 1 in both Europe and Global guides (Corporate/M&A – Finland).
“Ilkka is one of the smartest lawyers I have worked with. He has very strong technical know-how, is very hard-working and takes a pragmatic approach to complex issues.”
“Ilkka is a superb M&A lawyer with second-to-none substantive matter knowledge and service-mindedness.”
“I appreciate Ilkka Perheentupa's knowledge of the industry, the transactions and the regulations. He is able to give very good insights on various matters.”
“We are super happy with how he acts and handles things. He spends a lot of time with clients and we appreciate his support on things.”
Chambers Europe & Global 2026
Ilkka Perheentupa is ranked as “Highly regarded”.
IFLR1000 2025/26
Ilkka Perheentupa is ranked as “Thought Leader” in M&A.
Lexology Index 2025, Ilkka Perheentupa
Ilkka Perheentupa is recognised as a “Leading partner” in Commercial, corporate and M&A.
“Probably the sharpest M&A mind on the playing field.”
“Very approachable and hands-on throughout the engagement. Exceptionally strong negotiator. Finally, a very nice person to work with as well. Best law firm partner I have worked with.”
“Ilkka Perheentupa is your premium contact for international growth company deals. A nice person to work with.”
“Ilkka Perheentupa is forward-leaning and solution-oriented.”
The Legal 500 2025
Practices
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