William Blair, a boutique investment bank, announced that it has expanded its investment banking capabilities with the addition of a new sector team covering the Aerospace, Defense and Government Services. The team will operate from a new William Blair office in Charlotte, North Carolina. Charles Watson, a firm veteran and native of the area who covers the southeast for William Blair’s investment banking financial sponsor group, will now work from Charlotte as well.

The new team, led by managing director Gordie Vap, includes vice president Andrew Kugajevsky, and vice president Josh Ollek.

“William Blair is always looking to improve our investment banking team’s capabilities by adding quality teams and individuals with expertise in sectors that will add value for our clients,” said Brent Gledhill, global head of investment banking at William Blair. “Gordie and his team are experienced and knowledgeable within the Aerospace and Defense sector, and make an excellent addition to our already robust investment banking team.”

Mr. Vap and his team advised on more than 30 deals featuring businesses in the Aerospace, Defense and Government Services sector, and over the last two years, the team has completed 12 transactions. In addition to their extensive transactional expertise, the team has significant experience in operational roles in the U.S. military.