Chao arrives from a competing international firm with a focus on the formation and operation of private investment funds. Her transition into the Investment Management Group comes as Debevoise looks to maintain its foothold in a sector where it has already advised on more than 3,700 funds, representing over $6.3 trillion in committed capital.

Peter Furci, the firm's presiding partner, noted that the addition reflects a commitment to supporting sponsors throughout their business lifecycles. Rebecca Silberstein, who leads the Investment Management Group, highlighted Chao’s commercial judgment as a vital asset for clients managing shifting fundraising dynamics. A graduate of the University of Sydney and Queen’s University, Chao will now integrate into a practice that handles everything from downstream transactions and exits to complex fund restructurings.