Jesús Zapata

Partner
Country Managing Partner, Spain
Managing partner Jesús Zapata is well respected and ‘really good at pinpointing any shortcomings that might arise.’
— Chambers Europe 2022
Madrid
About

Jesús Zapata has over 25 years’ experience of helping clients with complex financial and banking issues, advising on significant transactions in the national and international market. He also has broad experience in corporate, acquisition and project financing.

He is widely recognised for his strong professional background in the Spanish financial sector and led the Finance, Projects and Restructuring practice of DLA Piper’s Madrid office until 2020, when he was elected Managing Partner.

Jesús recently advised financial entities on the debt refinancing of the leading Spanish retailer El Corte Inglés, and on the USD500 million granted to Servicios Compresión de Gas for the financing of an oil platform in Mexico.

He previously worked as Legal Adviser for one of Spain’s largest banks and as a lawyer for several global law firms.

Areas of FocusFinancial ServicesRestructuring
Professional QualificationsAbogado registered with Ilustre Colegio de Abogados de Madrid

EXPERIENCE

Jesús’ experience includes advising: 

  • The financial entities on the debt refinancing of leading Spanish retailer El Corte Inglés, exceeding EUR2 billion
  • The financial entities on the USD500 million granted to Servicios Compresión de Gas for the financing of an oil platform in Mexico
  • The financial entities on the debt refinancing of NH Hotel Group, exceeding EUR250 million
  • The financial entities on the c. EUR650 million refinancing of Spanish toll roads (radiales) R3 and R5
  • The financial entities, and subsequently the distressed debt funds, on the insolvency process of Spanish toll roads (radiales) R3 and R5

Awards and recognition

  • Hall of Fame, Banking and Finance, Spain, The Legal 500 EMEA 2018-22
  • Band 2 lawyer, Banking and Finance, Spain, Chambers Global and Europe since 2014

Publications and media

Memberships And Affiliations

  • Madrid Bar Association

My latest insights

News

DLA Piper advises on the EUR400 million refinancing of Minor Hotels

6 November 2025

News

DLA Piper advises Grupo Cobra on the Completion of Central-West Orana Renewable Energy...

7 April 2025 .3 minute read

News

DLA Piper Strengthens its Restructuring team with the appointment of new partner

18 February 2025 .3 minute read

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