Black Elk Energy Offshore Operations LLC retained Blackhill Partners as its restructuring adviser to guide it through its Chapter 11 bankruptcy, the company said Nov. 11.

Houston-based Black Elk operates and holds interests in Gulf of Mexico properties specifically within Louisiana and Texas state and federal waters.

Blackhill Partners' managing director Jeff Jones is leading the engagement. Jones has more than 25 years' experience as a restructuring adviser and investment banker, with particular expertise in energy restructuring and special situations M&A.

"Blackhill Partners' long history of serving energy companies in difficult situations allows us to provide the leadership required in this highly complex bankruptcy," said Jones.

Blackhill's energy restructuring team, also includes Eric Hyman, Lance Gurley, Todd Heinz and Tripp Ballard.

Blackhill Partners LLC is based in Dallas.