Senior Director Legal
DP World India
India
Senior Leader in M&A, Infrastructure, and Project Finance | Driving Strategic Growth & Deal Closure
Pawan Rao is a seasoned senior leader with over 19 years of comprehensive experience in orchestrating high-stakes transactions, managing complex infrastructure projects, and resolving commercial disputes. His expertise spans the full project lifecycle, from securing high-value M&A deals and managing Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) to overseeing commercial contracts and navigating high-stakes litigation. He has a proven track record of overcoming significant hurdles to deliver on strategic objectives and protect organisational value.
Pawan’s key career highlights include leading and executing several high-impact transactions:
1. He successfully steered the acquisition of a listed cold storage entity, a pivotal deal valued at approximately INR 5 billion, which involved a significant open offer.
2. He orchestrated the successful acquisition of a Multi-Modal Logistics Park in India, securing a deal size of around INR 2 billion.
3. He managed the acquisition of a pre-leased Grade A warehouse Logistics Park, a strategic transaction valued at approximately INR 5 billion.
4. He specialises in acquiring entities and assets through the Corporate Insolvency
5.Resolution Process (CIRP) and liquidation, showcasing his ability to identify and secure value in distressed situations.
Beyond deal-making, Pawan has a deep specialisation in navigating and resolving complex legal and commercial challenges. He has successfully defended critical court matters that removed impediments to the establishment of greenfield and brownfield infrastructure projects and has skilfully achieved favourable resolutions in complex litigation, including high-stakes arbitration cases. His ability to manage risk and protect corporate interests has been a consistent driver of success throughout his career.