Bradley Schmarak is co-head of Reed Smith’s Private Equity Group, a role in which he helps lead personnel, administrative, business development, and client management activities. He works extensively with general counsels, senior management teams, and boards of directors in complex domestic and cross-border investment transactions.

Schmarak represented a leading eye health company in multiple acquisitions, including in the medical device sector. He also represented investment firms in acquiring energy and industrial services. guided private equity sponsors and their portfolio companies through significant sales and recapitalizations, and served as lead partner to a major private equity firm in numerous acquisitions and financings. 

Beyond his client work, Schmarak serves on the boards of Ravinia Festival, RefugeeOne, and Middle Market Open under the National Kidney Foundation, demonstrating his commitment to cultural, humanitarian, and health initiatives in the community.

Siddesh Bale is a member of Reed Smith’s Executive Committee and vice-chair of its Business and Finance Department, where he manages the firm’s global transactional practices. Bale acts for private equity funds, their portfolio companies, and strategic buyers. He represents shareholder groups and management in recapitalization and sale transactions, with material experience in life sciences, business services, industrials, food, and education sectors.

Bale recently advised a Chicago-area insurance advisory firm in a significant recapitalization transaction with a global investment firm; counseled a Chicago-based food equipment manufacturer and its private equity sponsors in multiple international acquisitions; and advised a media company in its sale to a leading audio content provider. 

Bale is also a board member for the Chicago Committee for Minorities in Large Law Firms and volunteers for multiple non-profit animal rescues, including Chicago Rescue Bank and Precious Pets Almost Home. He is active in Reed Smith’s culture and engagement activities, including holding leadership roles.

Crain’s Notable M&A Dealmakers are selected through a rigorous peer nomination and editorial review process, recognizing leaders who have demonstrated involvement in significant M&A deals, serve in senior leadership roles, and have at least a decade of professional experience.