Overview

He has a deep understanding of every element of the regulations and provides us with pragmatic advice in our highly complex transactions.” “With Brian’s working experience and relationships with SFC, his advice on takeovers code and SFO has been outstanding.” - Chambers Greater China, 2025

Brian Ho is a partner in the Hong Kong office of Kirkland & Ellis.

Brian counsels the Firm’s private equity and corporate clients on novel and complex transactions, including Hong Kong public takeovers and capital markets transactions.

Prior to joining Kirkland, Brian served as the Executive Director – Corporate Finance of The Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong (the “SFC”). Brian has an exemplary record of dedication to public service and commitment to the highest regulatory standards during his time at the SFC, where he led the Corporate Finance Division and was responsible for SFC’s significant Hong Kong IPO decisions including pre-IPO consultations, and oversaw takeovers and mergers regulations and listing policy matters. Furthermore, Brian was Chief Coordinator of the SFC to launch China-Hong Kong Stock Connect.

During the time when Brian was Executive Director of Corporate Finance of the SFC, he was a member of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited’s Listing Nominating Committee and served on the SFC’s Real Estate Investment Trusts Committee, Nominations Committee and Advisory Committee. Brian was also a Chairman of Public Shareholders Group of the SFC.

Brian has a well-earned reputation for contributing to the successful development of Hong Kong as a leading global financial center.

Brian is recognized as a leading lawyer for M&A by Chambers Greater China 2025 and a “Notable Practitioner” for M&A by Chambers Asia-Pacific 2025.

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Recognition

“Notable Practitioner”, Corporate/M&A and Corporate/M&A: Private Equity, Chambers Asia-Pacific (2025)

“Leading Lawyer”, Corporate/M&A: The Elite (International Firms) – China, Chambers Greater China (2025)

“Highly Regarded”, M&A and Capital Markets: Equity, IFLR1000 (2024)

Credentials

Admissions & Qualifications

  • 1988Hong KongSolicitor

Languages

  • English

Education

  • University of Hong KongPCLL1986
  • University of Hong KongLL.B.1985