Lazard, Inc. recently announced the appointment of David Krap as Managing Director and Co-Head of the European Consumer, Retail and Leisure business. This position underscores Lazard's commitment to expanding its advisory services in strategically important sectors and solidifying its presence in Europe. The appointment is part of the company-wide "Lazard 2030" strategy, which aims to increase the number of managing directors across its advisory business.
Mr Krap brings over 20 years of experience in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) advisory within the consumer sector. His specific focus is on food and beverages, household and personal care products, and selected segments of consumer health. This expertise is relevant to the real estate market as it provides insights into the expansion and location selection of retail and consumer goods companies, which in turn influences the demand for corresponding commercial properties.
Professional Background and Strategic Importance
Before joining Lazard, David Krap served as Managing Director and Co-Head of Consumer and Retail for the EMEA region at J.P. Morgan. Prior to that, he held senior positions at renowned financial institutions such as Credit Suisse, Centerview Partners, and UBS. His extensive career highlights an in-depth knowledge of the consumer goods industry and its intersections with financial transactions. Mr Krap graduated with honours from the European Business School London and is fluent in German and Spanish.
Jean-Louis Girodolle, Co-Head of European Investment Banking at Lazard, emphasised the significance of the new appointment, describing Mr Krap as a highly regarded adviser with an exceptional track record, who has guided boards and management teams through complex strategic changes and transactions. Cyrus Kapadia, also Co-Head of European Investment Banking, added that David Krap is a valued adviser to many leading companies in the industry and that his expertise and long-standing relationships would strengthen Lazard's market position as the firm invests in its European platform and expands its service offering for clients.
Orientation and Future Role
David Krap will commence his role from London and strengthen Lazard's European financial advisory business, which is led by Jean-Louis Girodolle and Cyrus Kapadia. He himself expressed his conviction in the objectives of the "Lazard 2030" strategy and the targeted growth. He looks forward to becoming part of the team and helping to shape and further expand the global consumer sector business. This signals an active role for Lazard in advising on transactions that also involve real estate assets within the context of consumer goods, retail, and leisure companies.
- —David Krap is the new Co-Head of European Consumer, Retail and Leisure at Lazard.
- —He brings over 20 years of M&A advisory experience in the consumer sector, including food and beverages, as well as household and personal care products.
- —His appointment supports Lazard's "Lazard 2030" strategy to expand its leadership team.
- —Krap will commence his role from London.
