Willkie Expands Private Funds Team with Addition of Partner Debra Franzese in New York
Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP adds private funds lawyer Debra Franzese to the Firm as a partner in the Asset Management Department. She is based in New York.
To anyone looking for your next opportunity I HIGHLY suggest working with Joe. We worked together for only a few weeks but when I say he was my biggest cheerleader I mean it. Even when I didn’t think it would work the way it did, he still spoke as though it was already a done deal! I have NEVER had a recruiter produce the results that Joe did. I will most definitely be passing his information along to all of my associates looking for new opportunities.
Adrienne J.
Accounts Payable Analyst
Jillian has been the most pleasant recruiter I have worked with. Jillian provided timely updates throughout each stage of the interview process, and I believe fought for my interest with the hiring department. Thanks for everything!
Daniel L.
Litigation Associate Attorney
Joe is the best there is. His knowledge of the field is matched only by his responsiveness and desire to find the exact right fit for his clients. When I first contacted him, I was at sea, confused about how to take the next step in my career. Joe not only facilitated my career shift, but also walked me through the entire process, providing sound advice with the comfort and ease of a seasoned professional. I’m not making another move without consulting Joe first.
Charlie I.
Legal Recruiting Specialist
Joseph is an excellent recruiter and a great person! I had never heard of Permanent Placements until I submitted my resume to LinkedIn for one position. Joe got in touch with me right away and wanted to set up a time to talk. We did, and I really liked him! I could tell he would find me a job or die trying. Joe then told me about a position at a firm I had heard of and was impressed by. He wanted to send my resume to this firm. I told him OK, and they reached out to him saying they wanted to meet me. Ultimately, I had two Zoom interviews and an eventual offer! In between the interviews, Joe made sure to get in touch and see if I had any questions or concerns. I am a nervous interviewee, so I went over my worries, and Joe & I talked them over. He was very reassuring and confident I would do well. Joe is an awesome recruiter, as I said before. He is everything one should be. When I got the offer from the firm, I sent him a thank you note expressing my gratitude. He responded back thanking me. It meant a lot that he took the additional time to acknowledge my thank you. I have been at my firm for almost five months now, and it’s a great fit! I will always be thankful to Joe and Permanent Placements for their efforts and help. It was a great experience.
Jacquelyn B.
Litigation Paralegal
Working with Michael Knutson has been an absolute game-changer in my professional journey. His depth of knowledge in recruiting is matched only by his genuine dedication to supporting candidates through every step of the process. Michael doesn’t just fill roles—he builds relationships. He took the time to understand my goals, strengths, and values, and then connected me with opportunities that truly aligned. His insights into the industry, clear communication, and strategic guidance made the entire experience seamless and empowering. If you’re looking for a recruiter who’s not only incredibly skilled but also deeply invested in your success, Michael is the one. I’m grateful for his support and highly recommend him to anyone navigating the next step in their career.
Lorraine C.
Litigation Assistant
Joe has been the best recruiter I have ever worked with. He was very informative when it came to the job I was interviewing for. He helped put me at ease when I was nervous for my interviews and gave me some great pointers about interviewing well. I was able to call him at any time if I had any questions and he was always responsive. He helped me get an amazing job offer at a global firm. I recommend working with Joe for anyone that is looking for a job.
Biljana S.
Associate Attorney
Ms. Dent was instrumental in helping me acquire a new legal position that was responsive to my interests and skillet. Her coaching and assistance were fundamental in helping me change to a new field. She would take time to handle my calls, answered any questions, then gave me pertinent advice in handling the interview process. I was ultimately placed in a job I greatly enjoy. I cannot recommend her services highly enough as she is both professional and courteous in how she handles clients. If you’re looking for a new job, definitely seek her out.
Jesse K.
Attorney
Joseph Mayer was an amazing recruiter who assisted me in obtaining a permanent position in the same healthcare field that I enjoyed working in. He was on the lookout for opportunities that fit my skill set and had open communication that always kept me informed on how my job search was going. I highly recommend him as a recruiter for your job search needs. Thank you, Joe, for going above and beyond to help me find my new position!!
Annel H.
Senior Legal Assistant
Joe helped me through the interview process with my current employer. He took his time speaking with me and gave me solid advice. He really pushed me to think about myself and my happiness, which was extremely helpful. If you are in the market for a new position, I would recommend working with Joe.
Sarah S.
Professional Development Specialist
Joe is amazing! I had interviews (multiple) within two days of speaking to Joe about my interests and potential opportunities. I accepted a position two weeks from the date of my first call with Joe. He gave me candid advice, had my back, and bridged any communication gaps between me, as a candidate, and the firm. His follow up is impeccable! Thanks Joe.
Porsha W.
Associate Attorney
Joe and I have worked together to recruit and hire the best people for our firm for over 5 years. What impresses me most about Joe is his passion for helping his clients and his candidates be successful. He truly plays as part of the team. He is also a valuable educator as it relates to understanding the market. Joe continues to take the time to collaborate with our hiring team and has demonstrated over and over his ability to shift with our business needs. Joe excels at communication and keeping me updated with any relevant information we need to make hiring decisions. Joe has made a measurable difference in our firm. Highly recommend.
Dana K.
Chief Operating Officer
Joe is a wonderful individual with which to work. He does his very best to place individuals where they are able to thrive. He has been supportive in so many ways. I have appreciated working with him.
Janet S.
Legal Assistant