2026 Ones to Watch - Rising Stars: Matthew Gibbons, Gibson Dunn

“Matthew Gibbons has established himself as a trusted advisor on some of the market’s most sophisticated real estate finance transactions. He is regularly relied upon to navigate complex capital structures, deliver practical, business-focused solutions, and lead high-profile deals with confidence. Combined with his leadership within the firm, commitment to mentorship, and growing industry recognition, Matthew exemplifies the next generation of leaders in real estate finance.” 

What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry, and what path brought you to your current role?

I was drawn to real estate finance because it combines legal complexity, business strategy, and tangible impact. Early in my career, I was most engaged by sophisticated transactions requiring creative structuring and collaboration across stakeholders. That interest led me to real estate finance, where I now advise financial institutions, sponsors, and lenders on complex deals across the capital stack. At Gibson Dunn, I’ve worked on transformative transactions while building client relationships and mentoring junior attorneys.

What accomplishment or project so far in your career are you most proud of?

I am most proud of leading complex, high-value transactions requiring innovative structuring and coordination among multiple stakeholders. Recently, I advised on an approximately $418 million construction loan for a luxury hotel and branded condominium development, including $162 million of subordinate EB-5 financing. The deal involved a highly structured capital stack and shifting market conditions, requiring creative execution and alignment among lenders, borrowers, and investors from start to close.

Who has been a mentor or influential figure in your career, and what is the most valuable advice they have shared with you?

I have been fortunate to learn from outstanding mentors at Gibson Dunn and in the industry. The most valuable advice I received is that clients remember judgment and reliability as much as technical skill. Understanding client objectives, communicating clearly, and remaining steady under pressure are critical. That perspective continues to guide how I approach transactions and relationships, and how I mentor junior attorneys to think beyond legal issues and focus on client outcomes.

What trends or opportunities do you see shaping the future of your industry?

Artificial intelligence will significantly shape the future of real estate finance. While already transforming data analysis and decision-making, its impact is just beginning in underwriting, risk assessment, and asset management. Clients are increasingly asking how AI can be integrated into investment strategies and operations. I look forward to incorporating these tools into my practice as the industry evolves and as technology becomes more central to structuring and executing transactions.