Simpson Thacher Commits to Boston Buildout With Two New Partners

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett brings two new partners to its recently opened Boston outpost.

Zachary Hafer has joined the government and internal investigations practice. “To be the firm’s first litigation partner in Boston is exciting on its own, but it also means joining a remarkably collaborative team with an incredible platform,” he said.

Hafer was a Boston-based partner at Cooley LLP for more than three years, before which he was Assistant US Attorney at the US Attorneys’ Office in Massachusetts. His practice includes issues related to the False Claims Act, Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, anti-kickback statute, the CARES Act and related Securities and Exchange Commission matters, according to the firm.

Zachary Hafer

Simpson Thacher Bartlett

Yonatan Levy has joined the private funds practice from Ropes & Gray, where he was a partner for more than two years and an associate for nine years. “Getting the chance to help develop the culture of the office and expand the funds capabilities in Boston ... is really attractive,” Levy said.

“These additions underscore our commitment to Boston and will enhance our capabilities to address clients’ transactional, regulatory, enforcement and disputes needs in the region,” said Alden Millard, chair of Simpson Thacher’s Executive Committee, in a statement.

Yoni Levy

Simpson Thacher Bartlett

Simpson Thacher’s Boston office opened in 2024 with the hire of partner Kenneth E. Burdon, who joined the firm’s registered funds practice from Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom. It is led by co-managing partners David Blass and Joshua Ford Bonnie. Registered funds was the first practice area for the newly created office.

Firm leaders intend to “outgrow” their Boston office, which can house about 50 lawyers, over the next two to three years.