Sean Seelinger

Sean Seelinger is a U.S.-trained lawyer based in London and a member of the firm’s Litigation and Enforcement practice group. Sean’s practice focuses on government-initiated and internal investigations of cross-border anti-corruption, anti-money laundering, and trade compliance matters, as well as advising private equity firms regarding compliance and CFIUS risk associated with cross-border transactions. He also regularly advises multinational corporations on corruption, money laundering, and sanctions issues associated with prospective business agreements, and assists companies implement best-practice compliance programs. Sean also frequently assists newly acquired non-U.S. portfolio companies of U.S. private equity firms review their business dealings and internal procedures to ensure compliance with applicable OFAC sanctions.

Sean has deep experience advising on compliance risk in the pharmaceutical/medical device and energy industries. Sean has conducted numerous corruption investigations and deep-dive risk assessments in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe on behalf of pharmaceutical and medical device companies subject to DOJ monitorships, Deferred Prosecution Agreements, as well as ongoing FCPA and UK Bribery Act investigations.

While previously based in the New York office, Sean was seconded to the Global Compliance Group of a Fortune 100 multinational oil & gas company. During his secondment, Sean led several internal investigations and assisted with the restructuring of the company’s anti-corruption and anti-boycott compliance program. Sean has also advised investors on energy investments in high-risk markets, particularly in Africa, and conducted on-the-ground assessments of potential local partners.

Prior to joining Ropes & Gray, Sean served as an Assistant Attorney General at the Office of the Attorney General for the State of New York. During his tenure, he represented New York’s former Department of Insurance in one of the largest administrative law challenges in the state’s history.