Julian Black Lifetime Contribution to the Industry Award
The Fund Finance Association (FFA) established the Julian Black Lifetime Contribution to Industry Award in 2018 to recognize individuals who demonstrate dedication to the selfless service of the Fund Finance industry, which is the legacy left by the beloved Julian Black. Mr. Black's contributions to the fund financing market both in the Cayman Islands and globally, as well as his extensive charitable efforts, are remembered and honored each year with the presentation of this award.
2025 Recipient
Mary Touchstone
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP
Mary Touchstone, a retired partner from Simpson Thacher, has been a driving force in the fund finance industry. As former Head of the Fund Finance Practice, she helped establish Simpson Thacher as a global leader, representing sponsors of private equity, real estate, energy, and other investment funds in some of the market's largest and most complex financings. Mary’s expertise spans subscription credit facilities, NAV-based financings, and a range of fund-level transactions. Her ability to represent client needs with precision and collaborate across the ecosystem has earned her widespread respect. A committed advocate for inclusivity, Mary has served as Vice Chairman of the Fund Finance Association and as Global Co-Chair of Women in Fund Finance, supporting initiatives to advance women in the industry. Recognized among Lawdragon’s “500 Leading Lawyers in America” for five consecutive years, Mary’s contributions to fund finance and her leadership legacy will leave a lasting impact.
Past Recipients
F. William Reindel
2024
Joe Mahon
2023
Marcia Page
2022
