William E. Leister

Will Leister is a partner in Mayer Brown’s Banking & Finance group in Charlotte. His practice focuses on representing banks and alternative lenders in structuring and documenting subscription credit facilities for private equity, real estate, and infrastructure funds, as well as other fund finance solutions.

Will is a trusted advisor on some of the largest and most complex deals in the market, known for his commercial approach to navigating tough issues and delivering practical solutions. He brings a strong command of fund structures, collateral mechanics, and market terms, and regularly leads transactions for top-tier lenders facing bespoke borrower structures, tight timelines, and sponsor-driven negotiations.

Will earned both his JD and undergraduate degrees from Duke University. He plays an active role in the firm’s internal initiatives and in the Charlotte civic community.

• Duke University, BS, BA
• Duke University School of Law, JD

• North Carolina

• Charlotte Museum of History Emerging Leaders and Heritage Council, Member