Annette Becker, a member of the firm’s Corporate & Finance group, has over 30 years of experience practicing corporate law in a wide range of transactional matters, including U.S. and cross-border mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures, corporate venture capital and other equity investments, and other complex and strategic transactions and corporate governance.
Annette’s experience includes advice to public, private, and nonprofit businesses in the technology, senior housing and care, and healthcare industries. Annette advises hospitals, health systems, and other healthcare providers and investors in navigating the regulatory, operational, and governance considerations that are critical to the success of complex healthcare combinations and collaborations.
Annette also advises clients as to transactions involving AI, software, hardware, cloud-based platforms, SaaS and enterprise solutions, data analytics, and emerging technologies, including structuring deals to align with the rapidly evolving product development cycles and data-driven business models. Annette advises clients on the legal implications of AI technologies. She has a comprehensive understanding of the rapidly evolving AI industry. Annette brings a deep understanding to both industries and is particularly well-positioned to advise on transactions at the intersection of healthcare and technology.
Experience
- Represented Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ: MSFT) with respect to the recapitalization of OpenAI Global LLC to OpenAI Global PBC.
- Represented Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ: MSFT) in its equity investments in Databricks, Inc.
- Represented Merrill Gardens L.L.C. in the formation of its joint venture with an affiliate of PGIM Real Estate.*
- Represented Microsoft Corporation in over $13 billion in equity investments in, and other advice with respect, to OpenAI Global, LLC and OpenAI Global PBC.*
- Represented R.D. Merrill Real Estate Holdings, LLC in the formation of its joint venture with an affiliate of Stockbridge Capital Group, LLC and its affiliated funds.
*Reflects experience at previous employer.
Perspectives
Recognition
Mergers and Acquisitions Law (WA) (2024-2026)
Credentials
Education
- J.D., Emory University School of Law, 1992
- B.A., Emory University, 1989
Admissions
- Washington
Activities
- Executive Committee of the Board of Directors and Membership Committee Chair, Technology Alliance (2016-present)