Shevaun McGrath: A Leader in Private Equity and Gender Equity
Shevaun McGrath, a distinguished lawyer at McCarthy Tétrault, stands as a leading figure in private equity and gender equity in the legal profession. As Co-Head of the firm’s National Private Equity Group and a member of the firm’s Senior Leadership Team, McGrath has earned widespread recognition for her expert guidance in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), capital markets, and private equity transactions. Her influence extends across Canada and international markets through her adept handling of high-profile deals and her commitment to fostering equity within the legal community.
With over 25 years of experience, McGrath is a trusted advisor for both domestic and global corporations, providing strategic guidance on M&A, divestitures, and capital-raising activities. Her private equity practice includes representing institutional investors in primary, secondary, and co-investments, as well as advising on fund formation and regulatory compliance. McGrath has led some of Canada’s most significant transactions, such as Vista Equity Partners’ $4.4 billion acquisition of DH Corporation and the restructuring of $35 billion in asset-backed commercial paper during the 2008 financial crisis. These accomplishments have earned her numerous accolades, including being named one of the *Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers in Canada* by *Canadian Lawyer* in 2024.
Her contributions extend beyond deal-making. McGrath is consistently ranked as a leading lawyer in private equity and M&A by various legal directories, including *Chambers Global* and the *Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory*. She is valued by clients for her responsiveness, negotiation skills, and ability to deliver practical, business-oriented solutions.
In addition to her legal expertise, McGrath serves as a staunch advocate for gender equity in the legal and private equity sectors. She is actively involved in initiatives that promote the advancement of women, including her participation in organizations such as the Canadian Venture Capital & Private Equity Association (CVCA) and Private Equity Women Investor Network (PEWIN). As a mentor and leader, she regularly uses her platform to support the next generation of professionals in private equity and M&A, earning her McCarthy Tétrault’s “Mentor of the Year” award multiple times, including in 2024.
McGrath’s efforts align with broader institutional objectives at McCarthy Tétrault, which is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within the firm and the legal profession. These commitments resonate with similar initiatives across the industry, such as the Women’s Advancement, Voices & Equity (WAVE) Committee at Cassels and other gender equity programs in law firms worldwide.
Beyond her professional achievements, McGrath contributes meaningfully to her community. She volunteers with organizations like Bereaved Families of Ontario, where she facilitates support for parents coping with the loss of infants. Her dedication to societal welfare further underscores the depth of her impact, both professionally and personally.
Shevaun McGrath is not only a trailblazer in private equity and M&A but also a champion for gender equity in the legal field. Her leadership at McCarthy Tétrault exemplifies a commitment to excellence, innovation, and inclusivity. Through her expertise and advocacy, McGrath not only shapes the future of Canadian law but also paves the way for a more equitable and diverse legal profession.
Shevaun McGrath: A Leader in Private Equity and Gender Equity
Shevaun McGrath, a distinguished lawyer at McCarthy Tétrault, stands as a leading figure in private equity and gender equity in the legal profession. As Co-Head of the firm’s National Private Equity Group and a member of the firm’s Senior Leadership Team, McGrath has earned widespread recognition for her expert guidance in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), capital markets, and private equity transactions. Her influence extends across Canada and international markets through her adept handling of high-profile deals and her commitment to fostering equity within the legal community.
With over 25 years of experience, McGrath is a trusted advisor for both domestic and global corporations, providing strategic guidance on M&A, divestitures, and capital-raising activities. Her private equity practice includes representing institutional investors in primary, secondary, and co-investments, as well as advising on fund formation and regulatory compliance. McGrath has led some of Canada’s most significant transactions, such as Vista Equity Partners’ $4.4 billion acquisition of DH Corporation and the restructuring of $35 billion in asset-backed commercial paper during the 2008 financial crisis. These accomplishments have earned her numerous accolades, including being named one of the *Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers in Canada* by *Canadian Lawyer* in 2024.
Her contributions extend beyond deal-making. McGrath is consistently ranked as a leading lawyer in private equity and M&A by various legal directories, including *Chambers Global* and the *Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory*. She is valued by clients for her responsiveness, negotiation skills, and ability to deliver practical, business-oriented solutions.
In addition to her legal expertise, McGrath serves as a staunch advocate for gender equity in the legal and private equity sectors. She is actively involved in initiatives that promote the advancement of women, including her participation in organizations such as the Canadian Venture Capital & Private Equity Association (CVCA) and Private Equity Women Investor Network (PEWIN). As a mentor and leader, she regularly uses her platform to support the next generation of professionals in private equity and M&A, earning her McCarthy Tétrault’s “Mentor of the Year” award multiple times, including in 2024.
McGrath’s efforts align with broader institutional objectives at McCarthy Tétrault, which is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within the firm and the legal profession. These commitments resonate with similar initiatives across the industry, such as the Women’s Advancement, Voices & Equity (WAVE) Committee at Cassels and other gender equity programs in law firms worldwide.
Beyond her professional achievements, McGrath contributes meaningfully to her community. She volunteers with organizations like Bereaved Families of Ontario, where she facilitates support for parents coping with the loss of infants. Her dedication to societal welfare further underscores the depth of her impact, both professionally and personally.
Shevaun McGrath is not only a trailblazer in private equity and M&A but also a champion for gender equity in the legal field. Her leadership at McCarthy Tétrault exemplifies a commitment to excellence, innovation, and inclusivity. Through her expertise and advocacy, McGrath not only shapes the future of Canadian law but also paves the way for a more equitable and diverse legal profession.
Conclusion
Shevaun McGrath’s remarkable career serves as a testament to her exceptional leadership in private equity and gender equity. As Co-Head of McCarthy Tétrault’s National Private Equity Group, she has not only shaped high-profile transactions but also championed diversity and inclusion in the legal profession. McGrath’s dedication to mentoring and advancing women in law and private equity underscores her commitment to creating a more equitable future. Her achievements, both professionally and personally, leave a lasting impact on the legal community and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Shevaun McGrath’s role at McCarthy Tétrault?
Shevaun McGrath is the Co-Head of McCarthy Tétrault’s National Private Equity Group and a member of the firm’s Senior Leadership Team.
What are some of Shevaun McGrath’s notable transactions?
She led significant deals such as Vista Equity Partners’ $4.4 billion acquisition of DH Corporation and the restructuring of $35 billion in asset-backed commercial paper during the 2008 financial crisis.
How is Shevaun McGrath involved in gender equity initiatives?
McGrath is actively involved in organizations like the Canadian Venture Capital & Private Equity Association (CVCA) and the Private Equity Women Investor Network (PEWIN). She also mentors the next generation of professionals in private equity and M&A.
What awards has Shevaun McGrath received?
She has been named one of the *Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers in Canada* by *Canadian Lawyer* in 2024 and has earned McCarthy Tétrault’s “Mentor of the Year” award multiple times.
How is Shevaun McGrath involved in her community?
McGrath volunteers with organizations like Bereaved Families of Ontario, supporting parents coping with the loss of infants.
What is Shevaun McGrath’s impact on the legal profession?
She is a trailblazer in private equity and M&A, and her advocacy for gender equity has paved the way for a more diverse and inclusive legal profession.
