About Gabriel Yomi Dabiri
Global Head of Private Credit and Direct Lending at Squire Patton Boggs
Gabriel Yomi Dabiri is a finance attorney based in New York and currently holds the position of Global Head of Private Credit and Direct Lending at Squire Patton Boggs. In this role, he advises clients on a broad array of financial transactions, including domestic and international financings, special situations, restructurings, and bankruptcy matters.
Gabriel's experience spans senior, mezzanine, and subordinated loans, as well as unitranche financing and first- and second-lien structures. He is also skilled in handling transactions involving cash flow lending, asset-based lending, subscription lines, distressed debt, DIP financing, and real estate finance.
With a background in private credit “buy-and-hold” strategies and broadly syndicated finance, he advises lenders, private equity sponsors, and corporate borrowers on a range of transactions, from straightforward deals to complex, market-defining structures.
Career and Leadership in Private Credit
Gabriel is focused on leading and expanding the Global Private Credit and Direct Lending practice at Squire Patton Boggs. With deep knowledge of deal structuring and market behavior, he provides clients with advice that is grounded in commercial practicality. His responsibilities include negotiating intercreditor and subordination agreements and guiding clients through restructuring and insolvency-related matters.
His approach reflects both technical proficiency and an understanding of client priorities. By aligning legal solutions with business objectives, he helps clients manage risks while advancing strategic goals.
Global Experience and Cross-Border Capability
Gabriel is dual qualified to practice law in New York and as a solicitor in England and Wales. Having lived and worked across key global cities such as New York, London, and Singapore, he brings a strong international outlook to his work. This global experience allows him to handle multi-jurisdictional finance transactions with insight into both legal complexity and cultural context.
Career Path
Gabriel began his legal career in London, where he trained at an international law firm with placements in London, Singapore, and New York. He later joined another global firm as an associate in the Banking and Finance practice. During his time there, he secured his first significant client in the private credit space as a fifth-year associate. This experience was pivotal in his development as a finance attorney.
In 2016, he moved to a firm that was doing more private credit work. Later, he was invited to establish a Private Credit and Cross-Border Finance practice at a national law firm. There, he also served as Managing Partner of the New York office from September 2021 to April 2025. Under his leadership, the office grew its headcount by 83%, prompting the need for additional office space. He was instrumental in designing the expansion and naming the new multipurpose room “The Big Apple,” which hosted various firm events, including visits from the Queen and Princess of Sweden.
In April 2025, he joined Squire Patton Boggs to lead the Global Private Credit and Direct Lending practice. Based in the New York City Metropolitan Area, he works across the firm’s 48 international offices, helping to grow the practice and support clients in different markets.
Education and Dual Qualification
He holds a B.A. in Economics and Political Science from the University of Pennsylvania, earned in 2000. He later received an LL.B (Hons) in Law from Cardiff University in 2008.
His dual qualification in New York and England and Wales has been essential in his work. As many significant financial transactions are governed by New York law or the laws of England and Wales, his credentials allow him to lead complex, cross-border financing matters across various jurisdictions.
Philanthropy and Community Engagement
Outside of his legal practice, Gabriel is involved in philanthropy and volunteer work. From March 2018 to March 2025, he served on the Board and Finance Committee of the Women First International Fund, supporting efforts to advance economic empowerment. Since September 2020, he has also volunteered with the American Heart Association’s Council for a Cause program, contributing his legal expertise to health-related initiatives.
Innovative Finance Strategies
Gabriel combines legal insight with a firm grasp of market trends to deliver financing solutions that meet both business and legal needs. His experience in private credit and cross-border finance enables him to navigate complex structures to create value for clients. He takes a solution-oriented approach that helps borrowers, sponsors, and lenders navigate challenges and seize opportunities.
Global Perspective with Practical Insight
Gabriel Yomi Dabiri is among a select group of finance attorneys whose experience spans multiple global markets. This international perspective enables him to provide clients with guidance on cross-border transactions, restructuring strategies, and specialized lending structures. His approach reflects a balance of global awareness and local understanding.
Gabriel also contributes to the broader legal and finance communities by mentoring others and participating in initiatives focused on growth and knowledge sharing. Through his work, he continues to support the development of the private credit and cross-border finance sectors with dedication and thoughtful leadership.