M. Shams Billah

M. Shams Billah

Partner, Private Credit Chair, Debt Finance Co-Chair

Shams Billah navigates complex loan agreements for lenders and borrowers, orchestrating deals ranging from $1 million to $10+ billion. His responsive, no-frills approach to getting the right result and ability to resolve intricate finance issues as the deal progresses make him a go-to advisor for credit funds, global asset managers, and private equity firms, including Farallon, Brightwood Capital, InterVest Capital Partners, Sound Point Capital, Sagent, and HCAP.

Shams's versatile fluency in both buy-and-hold credit strategies and syndicated finance transactions translates into tangible benefits for those he serves. He guides clients through a variety of deals across a multitude of industries, including healthcare, media, technology, and manufacturing. His commercial mindset, honed during his time in investment banking, ensures efficiency and pragmatism in everything he does.

As the co-head of Barnes & Thornburg's Debt Finance group and leader of the Private Credit team, Shams leverages his broad market knowledge to structure senior, mezzanine, and subordinated loans, as well as complex inter-creditor arrangements. He also supports clients faced with debt restructurings and bankruptcies, negotiating workouts and debtor-in-possession and exit facilities with precision.

Shams also brings unique value to clients through his deep experience in Islamic finance and other Sharia-compliant transactions. As a thought leader in this niche space, he has published and lectured extensively across the United States, providing clients with innovative financing solutions that align with their specific values and needs.

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In finance, every detail matters. I blend broad and deep technical experience with commercial acumen to craft solutions that not only close deals on tight timelines but also support ROI through our value proposition."
Credentials

Education

  • University of Pennsylvania Law School, J.D., magna cum laude
  • Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, Business and Public Policy Certificate
  • University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Middle East and Islamic Studies Certificate
  • George Washington University, B.A., economics, summa cum laude

Bar Admissions

  • New York
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