Sayat Kulzhabayev
Counsel with over 22 years of professional experience advising international corporations, quasi-state entities and private investors on complex legal and regulatory matters in Kazakhstan. Combines extensive Big Law background with long-term in-house leadership experience, including roles as Branch Director at GRATA and General Counsel of a multinational industrial group.
Recognized for deep expertise in corporate law, M&A, dispute resolution, regulatory compliance and major energy and EPC projects, combined with a strong understanding of client decision-making and risk management. Known for a pragmatic, business-oriented approach and ability to lead complex matters from structuring to dispute resolution.
Practice areas
Restructuring & Insolvency
Dispute Resolution
Project Finance & Public-Private Partnership (PPP)
Corporate and M&A
Experience
Corporate & M&A
- Advised foreign shareholders on acquisition and disposal of equity interests in Kazakh companies, covering structuring, due diligence, regulatory approvals and transaction closing.
- Supported establishment and restructuring of joint ventures with international participation, including governance frameworks and shareholder arrangements.
- Advised on post-acquisition corporate restructuring and reorganisation of group companies to align with regulatory and operational requirements.
Energy, EPC & Industrial Projects
- Provided legal support to EPC contractors on oil & gas projects, including contract drafting, risk allocation and regulatory compliance.
- Advised on industrial construction projects involving large-scale equipment installation, logistics and commissioning works.
- Supported contractors and investors in navigating industrial safety, licensing and permitting requirements for major projects.
Dispute Resolution & Regulatory
- Represented clients in administrative, tax, environmental, land and labour disputes before Kazakh courts and authorities.
- Advised on strategies for handling government inspections and regulatory enforcement actions, achieving dispute avoidance or early resolution.
- Supported clients in complex, multi-stakeholder disputes arising from construction, supply and services contracts.
Compliance & Governance
- Assisted clients in developing and implementing compliance, anti-corruption and internal governance policies.
- Advised boards and senior management on regulatory risk, directors’ duties and corporate governance matters.
Publications
- Author of professional publications focusing on regulatory enforcement, government inspections, subsoil use, environmental compliance and dispute prevention in Kazakhstan, with an emphasis on practical guidance for businesses and investors.