Triangle Business Journal Selects Charles Kabugo-Musoke for 40 Under 40 Leadership Award
Charles Kabugo-Musoke, a corporate and finance partner at Smith Anderson, has been named a recipient of the Triangle Business Journal’s 2026 40 Under 40 Leadership Award. The annual honor recognizes outstanding professionals under the age of 40 who are making a significant impact in their organizations and communities.
As a member of the firm’s nationally recognized Corporate and Transactional team, Charles advises banks and other financial institutions, corporate borrowers, private equity firms, and capital providers on complex finance and commercial transactions. Charles leads Smith Anderson’s Sponsor and Specialty Finance practice and co-leads the firm’s Financial Institutions practice. In 2025, he helped drive more than $2.5 billion in financings across more than 90 transactions, supporting companies in expanding operations, pursuing acquisitions, and creating jobs across North Carolina and beyond.
Charles’ leadership extends beyond his client work. He serves as co-leader of Smith Anderson’s global network of business law firms, Ally Law, and is a member of the firm’s Recruiting Committee, helping recruit, evaluate, and mentor legal talent. Under his leadership, Smith Anderson’s Sponsor and Specialty Finance team has advised on more than 350 finance transactions over the past four years.
In his Triangle Business Journal winner profile, Charles noted that while technology and AI will continue to accelerate efficiency in the legal industry, “trusted judgment, relationships and practical problem-solving will become even more valuable.” That perspective reflects the approach that has shaped his career: combining technical skill with consistency, responsiveness, and long-term trust.
Charles also gives back to the Triangle community through his service with Transitions LifeCare, formerly known as Hospice of Wake County. He previously served on its Board of Directors and as treasurer, and he currently serves on the Board of Trustees of the Hospice of Wake County Foundation, supporting the organization’s mission to provide care and support to individuals and families facing serious illness and end-of-life challenges. He also serves on the Board of Advisors for the UNC School of Law Center for Banking and Finance.
Charles has been recognized by Chambers USA in Banking and Finance, The Best Lawyers in America® for Banking and Finance Law, and North Carolina Super Lawyers as a Rising Star. With a strong record of professional achievement, firm leadership, community service, and continued promise, Charles exemplifies the leadership celebrated by the 40 Under 40 Leadership Award.
Click here to learn more about this year’s 2026 40 Under 40 winners.
