Loyens & Loeff > Brussels, Belgium > Firm Profile

Loyens & Loeff
TERVURENLAAN 2
1040 BRUSSELS
Belgium

Belgium > Dispute resolution Tier 1

Drawing on its close working relationships with a wider Benelux network of offices, Loyens & Loeff”s ‘professional and reactive‘ team routinely helms multi-jurisdictional disputes and international arbitrations for some of the world’s leading multinational corporations. The team is jointly chaired by ‘outstanding‘ international arbitrator Olivier van der Haegen and Hakim Boularbah, an ‘exceptional’ cross-border litigator and collective redress specialist whose recent engagements include big-ticket contractual disputes in the pharmaceutical sector. Senior associate and class actions specialist Maria-Clara Van den Bossche works with a host of clients from the worlds of tech, telecoms, and automotive manufacturing, while fellow senior associate Sarah Benzidi – noted for her arbitration focus – maintains a comparably broad practice, representing a mix of real estate, aerospace, and social media companies, among others. All named lawyers are based in Brussels unless stated otherwise.

Practice head(s):

Hakim Boularbah; Olivier van der Haegen

Testimonials

‘We have been working together with the team in cross-border disputes. They are smart, quick and a pleasure to work with.’

‘Hakim Boularbah is exceptional. He offers smart and solution-oriented advice.’

‘Olivier van der Haegen is outstanding. His legal analysis digs down to the core of the matter and discloses smart opportunities for the client.’

‘We have had a very well established relationship with Loyens & Loeff for several years. They are a very professional and reactive team, with a wide range of backgrounds and significant resources, allowing for a thorough and reactive follow-up of files.’

‘Hakim Boularbah is impressive on international law issues and complex litigation cases. We have always experienced a very good client service.’

‘They stand out not only for the quality of the legal work, but also the consideration given to our final cost.’

‘Hakim Boularbah and Olivier Van der Haegen always give concise and well motivated opinions and suggestions.’

Key clients

Pfizer

The Dow Chemical Company

VIDRALA, S.A.

Klépierre

Huntsman

Chevron Corporation Inc. and Chevron USA Inc

AstraZeneca

Interpol

BNP Paribas

John Cockerill – Cockerill Maintenance & Ingénierie (CMI)

Porsche AG

Atenor

Yukos Oil – former majority shareholders

Eurelec

Meta

Amazon

Sonaca

Proximus

Ryanair

Dargaud-Lombard

Amundi

Credendo

Sowaer

Work highlights

  • Assisting and representing AstraZeneca before the Brussels courts in its dispute with the European Union and the 27 Member States regarding the performance of the COVID-19 vaccine advance purchase agreement and alleged delays in deliveries of the vaccine to the EU market.
  • Assisting and representing Porsche AG in a class action filed before the Brussels courts by the Diesel Emissions Justice Foundation (DEJF).

Belgium > Industry focus: Energy Tier 1

The most experienced and complete Belgian law firm for advice in the renewable energy sector‘, according to one client, Loyens & Loeff‘s energy and infrastructure team has significant capabilities in both domestic and international renewable energy ventures, as well as energy storage, CRM, hydrogen ventures, and windfall tax reviews. Practice chair Koen Panis is a key port of call for various financial institutions, investors, and developers seeking assistance with solar energy projects and public-private partnership (PPP) financing across the Benelux region. Thomas Chellingsworth, who is lauded for the breadth of his energy sector expertise, regularly advises major public and private sector players on a wide array of matters, including smart electricity meter rollouts and new heating grid developments. Senior associates Christine Delagaye and Bram Devlies are also highly recommended. All named lawyers are based in Brussels.

Practice head(s):

Koen Panis

Testimonials

‘Dedicated team which knows about the Belgian federal regulations, but also for each region: Flanders, Wallonia and Brussels. The team is also well aware of the European obligations and constraints.’

‘Very skilled and broad legal advice in the renewable energy sector.’

‘Thomas Chellingsworth is the most knowledgeable Belgian lawyer on energy law matters in its broadest form. He advises project developers on the development of their projects in all its aspects. He is very knowledgeable as well in all relevant regulatory matters but also in all relevant contract and construction law matters. ‘

‘ The most experienced and complete Belgian law firm for advice in the renewable energy sector.’

‘The team offers all you need as a company involved in the hydrogen sector: strong expertise and deep knowledge of the industry, sound recommendations and advice and flawless execution.’

‘Great communication, top-level expertise, and sound and clear recommendations along with perfect execution.’

‘Bram stands out as he is one of the few lawyers on the Belgian market that combines a thorough energy regulatory practice with excellent contract drafting and negotiation skills. For onshore renewable energy projects, he is the go-to lawyer.’

‘Bram is well-versed in the negotiation of power purchase agreements and construction contracts in the energy sector. He is also one of the very few lawyers we know that already has a practice on assisting newer technologies such as battery storage projects on their contracting.’

Key clients

Prologis

Veolia

Nippon Koei Energy

Yuso

Flemish Regional Government (Energy Minister)

Fluvius

Plug Power Inc.

Norther

Parkwind NV

Nobelwind NV

Northwester 2 NV

Belwind NV

Maurel & Prom

European Investment Bank

Elicio NV

KBC Bank NV

International Car Operators

Belfius Bank

Work highlights

  • Advised a consortium of international lenders led by ING Bank N.V. in relation to the financing of BASF’s investment in the Hollandse Kust Zuid offshore wind farm project.
  • Representing the Flemish Regional Government in a series of civil suits regarding the new billing system for solar panel owners with a smart meter.
  • Assisted Nippon Koei Energy in respect of a planned large-scale (20 MW) battery energy storage plant in Schelle, Belgium.

Belgium > Real estate and construction Tier 1

The real estate team at Loyens & Loeff combines expertise in tax with a ‘deep knowledge of the real estate industry‘ to advise a broad and multinational client base on major investments, acquisitions, and developments. Christophe Laurent heads the practice, and is well regarded for his work on complex and high-value ‘tax, structuring and financial matters‘. Ariane Brohez is a ‘dealmaker‘ with broad experience on projects, while counsels Julien Lecler and Lien Bellinck are also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Christophe Laurent

Testimonials

‘Loyens & Loeff’s real estate and construction team has a deep knowledge of the real estate industry, understands and takes into account the constraints of the client, and always acts in a business-oriented manner which is highly appreciated from a client perspective.’

‘Always proactive and looking for solutions, so that a deal is possible.’

‘Christophe Laurent has an extensive knowledge of the real estate industry and is one of the very few lawyers who can not only advise clients on the legal aspects but also on related tax, structuring and financial matters. Julien Lecler is a brilliant lawyer with a very good knowledge of the real estate industry. Great availability, meets deadlines and has very good negotiation skills.’

‘Ariane Brohez is a great partner and dealmaker. She efficiently protects the interests of the client, but knows to advise on alternatives that will work for both parties.’

‘Christophe Laurent has very good real estate legal know-how and combines this with very good tax know-how, which is a great combination to have, especially in the markets in Belgium and Luxembourg. Julien Lecler is very proactive, so that a deal runs as smoothly as possible.’

Key clients

AEW

AG Real Estate

Atenor

AXA Investment Managers

BNP Paribas Real Estate Investment Management

Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations (France)

CBRE Investment Management

Covivio Hotels

Edmond de Rothschild REIM (Benelux)

Ethias

La Française Real Estate Managers

Prologis

Real IS AG

Swiss Life Real Estate Investment Managers

Tristan Capital Partners

Whitewood Capital

W.P. Carey

Work highlights

  • Advised AXA and ATP on the disposal of the shares of Galaxy Properties,  the owner of the North Galaxy office towers.
  • Advised AG Real Estate on the granting of a long-term lease right on Stéphanie Square, a mix of office and retail buildings located at the heart of Brussels.
  • Advised W.P. Carey on the acquisition of a long-term lease right, followed by a lease back, on the Greenyard facility in Bree.

Belgium > Tax Tier 1

Loyens & Loeff‘s team of ‘professional‘ and ‘agile‘ specialists provides advice on the full range of tax matters to clients from high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) to major corporates. Practice heads Nicolas Lippens, Nicolas Bertrand, and Natalie Reypens focus on corporate and international matters, family-owned businesses and private wealth, and transfer pricing, respectively. Saskia Lust co-heads on private wealth matters, and Bert Gevers leads on indirect tax and international trade issues. Of counsel Christian Chéruy has broad experience, and notable senior associates include Aldo Engels and Laurine Vanherck, who heads the employment tax sub-team.

Practice head(s):

Nicolas Lippens; Nicolas Bertrand; Natalie Reypens

Testimonials

‘The people from Loyens & Loeff are very professional, very helpful, and very agile in their response time. They really know what clients expect, and they really fulfil expectations about their service.’

Key clients

ABInBev

Galapagos

Bose Inc.

Corel

Euroclear

Tereos

Work highlights

  • Successfully assisted ABInBev in two high-profile court cases relating to the validity of its excess profit ruling.
  • Assisted Galapagos a.o. with the hire of its new CEO, the acquisition of CellPoint and AboundBio, and obtaining a complex tax ruling on the Belgian innovation income deduction regime.
  • Advised Bose Product on, among other matters, the implementation of an overall indirect tax control framework.

Belgium > Banking, finance and capital markets Tier 2

Practical and to the point‘, the team at Loyens & Loeff offers a strong pan-European focus on project finance, real estate, and asset-based lending mandates, as well as debt capital markets and financial services regulatory work, regularly acting as the lead counsel on multi-jurisdictional renewable energy, infrastructure, and PPP projects. Clients include major European and international banks and financial institutions, as well as public and private sector project proponents. Marc Vermylen leads the team, offering standout asset-based lending and project finance capabilities, while Vanessa Marquette specialises in financial regulatory issues, and Koen Panis focuses on energy and infrastructure lending work. At senior associate level, Sarah Libregts advises on asset-based lending transactions across a variety of asset classes, combining this with capital markets expertise, while Mathias Diricx  focuses on cross-border receivables and Euroclear issues.

Practice head(s):

Marc Vermylen

Other key lawyers:

Eveline Hellebuyck; Vanessa Marquette; Koen Panis; Sarah Libregts; Mathias Diricx

Testimonials

Practical and to the point solutions are the strengths of the team. They know what banks are expected from the lawyers and relevant advice is given.’

‘Client-focused.

‘Direct access to managing partner, senior team members with great knowledge’

‘We appreciate the team expertise in finance related matters, not only the required legal items, but also a very strong understanding of the pure finance issues, as well as the bigger picture. Their sharp financial view reinforces strongly their role as legal advisor on financial matters. Collaboration with the team is always very fruitful and leads to important structural innovations.’

‘The team individuals have extended experience, and while being specialists in their legal domain, they have also a strong broad view on the entire business. Our collaboration with Marc Vermylen is always highly appreciated and leads to considerable added value. We appreciate a lot his extensive experience, strong financial views, outstanding legal competence and no-nonsense approach.’

‘The L&L team clearly works very well together. They are responsive, professional, considerate of the client’s primary time zone, and (perhaps most importantly) very patient with our various demands, ever-changing timelines, uncertain deadlines and evolving scope throughout the course of a transaction.’

‘While our firm’s main contact at L&L is Marc Vermylen, a partner, the majority of my team’s correspondence is with Sarah Libregts, a senior attorney in the Belgian office. Sarah is incredibly responsive, and her legal advice is consistently thoughtful and well-articulated. She does a really good job of laying out the pros and cons of an approach; describing whether a point is ultimately a legal or business consideration; and guiding our deliberation with practical suggestions.’

‘I have worked with the banking and finance team of Loyens & Loeff on a number of transactions. The team worked always to the highest satisfaction of myself and of our joint clients, it was always responsive and delivered highest quality.’

Key clients

Goldman Sachs International

European Investment Bank

Belfius

Natixis

JP Morgan

Deutsche Bank

Balta Group

Aluminium Duffel

Landesbank Hessen-Thüringen Girozentrale (Helaba)

Parkwind NV

Virya Energy

Norther

Eurofactor

Natixis

Région wallonne

Francisco Partners

Pure Energie

AEA Investors LP

Work highlights

  • Advised Belfius in connection with the financing of a 16 MW onshore wind farm in the Walloon Region, Belgium.
  • Advised the Walloon Region (Région wallonne) with the renewal of its EUR 25 billion Euro Medium Term Note Programme with co-arrangers HSBC Continental Europe and Belfius Bank.
  • Advised Aluminium Duffel on the refinancing of its existing indebtedness in connection with its acquisition by AIP.

Belgium > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 2

Loyens & Loeff remains highly active across domestic and cross-border M&A and private equity transactions, offering solid multi-jurisdictional expertise alongside in-house tax and regulatory capabilities. The firm handles transactional work for major European clients in fields such as industrials, private equity, and real estate, and is also noted for its distressed M&A capabilities. Grégoire Jakhian oversees the team, with Wim Vande Velde remaining a highly experienced figure in the practice. Robrecht Coppens  is a key name for complex M&A and private equity deals, enjoying productive relationships with a number of major funds, while Thomas Lenné is noted for his cross-border expertise. Aubry Daerden left the firm.

Practice head(s):

Grégoire Jakhian

Other key lawyers:

Wim Vande Velde; Robrecht Coppens; Thomas Lenné; Mathias Hendrickx

Testimonials

‘They have an excellent team and pragmatic way of working.’

‘Excellent knowledge, pragmatic and always available.’

‘They use the latest techniques such as teams and digital signing of documents. They are always available and react very fast. They are real deal makers.’

‘Robrecht Coppens and his team are very pragmatic, fast and accurate with an extensive knowledge. They always look for a constructive solution without losing sight of the commercial and legal aspects.’

‘It is one of the largest M&A teams on the Belgian market. Their team is very complete and of a high quality. The arrival of Thomas Lenné has further boosted their transactional profile on the market.’

‘Thomas Lenné is an excellent dealmaker who understands what truly drives a deal. He is smart, quick, pragmatic and pleasant to work with.’

Key clients

Platinum Equity Advisors, LLC

Amphenol Corporation

Silver Lake

EQT AB

Pamplona Capital Management LLC

HIG European Capital Partners

Balta Group

CAPZA Mid-Cap Expansion Equity SLP

Spectrum Equity

Nitro Software Ltd

Corel / KKR

Schenk Tanktransport group

Orig Bene (MPG Austria)

CATISA

Summit Partners

Work highlights

  • Assisted Balta with the sale of Balta’s Rugs, Residential polypropylene (Residential PP) and Non-Woven businesses, together with the Balta brand, to Victoria PLC.
  • Assisted the Corel Group and its owner KKR, in connection with the acquisition of all the shares in the Belgian company Awingu NV and its US subsidiary Awingu Inc.
  • Assisted H.I.G. European Capital Partners in the acquisition of 100% of the shares in the Belgian company Quick Restaurants SA.

Belgium > Employment Tier 2

Loyens & Loeff‘s employment and benefits team combines expertise in pure employment and tax law to advise a strong roster of domestic and international clients in sectors from retail and pharmaceuticals to financial services and food. The practice handles workforce transformation, high-profile dismissals, and the development and implementation of schemes for alternative remuneration and flexible working, among other matters. Experienced in reorganisations and M&A, Filip Saelens co-leads the team with Kris De Schutter, who is praised for his ‘in-depth knowledge‘ of issues including downsizing and collective dismissals.

Practice head(s):

Filip Saelens; Kris De Schutter

Testimonials

‘Legal and sector knowledge. Broad scope, covering tax, legal, social, and pensions law in one firm. Main lawyer always supported by a team of associates, keeping the response time short.’

‘Kris De Schutter has in-depth knowledge of the sector and client. Great availability and closely manages a team of associates that keep the same standards.’

Key clients

Ferrero Ardennes

DPD Belgium

Balta Group

Omnivision

Delhaize

Galapagos

Greenyard

FCR Media

AG Real Estate

Van Eupen Sés

Inditex

Work highlights

  • Assisted Ferrero Ardennes with all employment matters, including labour relations issues due to the plant closure as a result of the pandemic, and negotiating and agreeing with the unions an agreement covering the employment and labour terms and conditions during the period that the food authorities have suspended temporarily the production of the plant.
  • Advised OmniVision Technologies, one of the global leaders in the design of semi-conductors, on the employment aspects of its entry to the Belgian market.
  • Advised Delhaize on The Healthy Membership Program, a non-taxable employee perk that rewards balanced eating with more purchasing power.

Belgium > EU regulatory: Financial services Tier 2

Loyens & Loeff offers broad regulatory compliance advice, transactional support, and representation in regulatory litigation and investigations by EU courts and regulatory authorities. The firm’s standout expertise includes fund passporting and AIFM issues, financial services provider M&A, and anti-money laundering compliance, with clients including banks, funds, intermediaries, and a growing number of crypto providers. The practice is led by Marc Vermylen, who takes the lead on transactional issues, alongside regulatory and litigation specialist Vanessa Marquette.

Practice head(s):

Vanessa Marquette; Marc Vermylen

Other key lawyers:

Eveline Hellebuyck

Testimonials

‘The team has a very good knowledge of the European and Belgian practices, and of what other financial institutions do, which is really helpful. The team is pragmatic but fully aware of the risks associated with the banking regulations and has provided to the point advice when we needed them.’

‘Vanessa Marquette is knowledgeable, pragmatic and responsive. She listens to the client’s needs and issues advices which really responds to the questions. She sticks to the budget.’

‘Vanessa Marquette in particular is excellent.’

Key clients

Société Generale, Société Générale Luxembourg, SGCIB

Moneygram

International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA)

CaixaBank

Santander Consumer Finance Benelux

Bundesverband deutscher Banken

PSA Finance Belux

Stellantis

Binance

Lazard Frères Gestion

EQT

Volvo Financial Services

The Texel Group

Snapon LLC

Indexia Group

Bain Capital Specialty Finance, Inc.

Apollo Management International LLP

HG Pooled Management Limited

Madison Dearborn Partners, LLC

TowerBrook Capital Partners L.P

747 Stuyvesant Capital

Inditex

Keepers SAS

Keensight Capital

Vanlanschot Kempen

Work highlights

  • Assisted Madison Dearborn Partners, LLC with the application for a declaration of non-objection by the National Bank of Belgium (NBB) in relation to the acquisition of shares in Moneygram, the second largest provider of money transfers in the world.
  • Assisted Blue Colibri Capital Partners with the regulatory aspects of the financing of/and the acquisition of the shares issued by Zuiderpoort Investment Sarl and Zuiderpoort Investment II Sarl.
  • Advised Keensight Capital on its acquisition of a majority stake in online payment service provider (PSP) Buckaroo from Blackfin Capital.

Belgium > Industry focus: Healthcare and life sciences Tier 2

Loyens & Loeff has significantly bolstered its healthcare and life sciences practice in recent years and the firm now has a full-service offering that covers an array of life sciences and healthcare-related matters. Working in cooperation with its offices across the Benelux region, the multidisciplinary team is well placed to advise major pharmaceutical companies and associations on cross-border transactional and contentious issues. IP and data protection litigator Stephanie De Smedt heads the team in collaboration with public procurement expert Valentijn De Boe. Other key individuals include Hakim Boularbah and senior associate Clémence Van Muylder.

Practice head(s):

Valentijn De Boe; Stéphanie De Smedt

Testimonials

‘The L&L practice is a unique blend of flexibility and knowledge. They understand how to work with US-based lawyers and guide them through foreign legal systems and processes. They had patience with business colleagues’ questions and made the business and legal teams feel comfortable with our legal strategy in record time.’

‘The entire team from partners to associates were always available when late-night issues arose and constantly produce outstanding and timely work products. It was a team where everyone had a voice and all contributed to shaping strategy and work product. There is no better team to litigate with in Belgium.’

‘Hakim Boularbah: A strategic thinker that sees the whole field. He appreciates the business goals and develops legal strategies to match those goals. Hakim was always available for our last minute questions and provided us with real feedback on the strengths and weakness of our positions. He put together strong legal briefs and delivered winning oral arguments. Our team trusted Hakim in record time and felt comfortable litigating in the Belgium system.’

‘Hakim has also built a very strong team of associates that speak up and contribute.’

‘Clémence Van Muylder: Dug into our case in record time and knew the facts cold. She made herself available at all hours and was crucial to drafting the briefing and delivered a strong oral argument.’

‘Stéphanie De Smedt: Asked great questions to help develop our strategy. She worked hand and hand with Hakim in putting together our strategy and provided timely advice as we learned the Belgium legal system. Was extremely flexible in responding to last-minute requests.’

‘The Loyens Loeff health regulatory team in Belgium is very professional and dedicated to the client. They are quite experienced in their field, responsive and able to provide timely, pragmatic and business oriented advice.’

‘The team are very approachable and hugely knowledgeable, willing and able to assist with all the key issues for the industry.’

Key clients

AstraZeneca

Melisana NV

Galapagos

Multipharma

B.Braun

AZ Sin-Elisabeth Zottegem

Omnivision

Micro Transponder Inc.

Arseus Medical

Metagenics

Work highlights

  • Assisted AstraZeneca in its Covid-19 vaccine dispute against the European Commission and the EU Member States.
  • Assisted Kiniciti, LLC. as local counsel in the acquisition of a majority shareholding in Belgian company Ncardia Holding, a leader in contract research, development and manufacture of stem cell-based solutions for drug discovery and cell therapy.
  • Assisted Galapagos in obtaining a tax ruling in Belgium confirming their entitlement to the innovation income deduction for their (embedded) royalties (to be) obtained in the context of the sales of the Jyseleca products.

Belgium > Insolvency and restructuring Tier 2

Loyens & Loeff‘s restructuring and insolvency team operates across the Benelux states and Switzerland. Financial sector regulation and litigation specialist Vanessa Marquette leads the practice in Belgium, where she acts for creditors and insolvent companies in pre-litigation proceedings and judicial reorganisations and bankruptcies. Banking and finance lead Marc Vermylen, meanwhile, brings expertise in debt restructuring to the table. Senior associate Jens De Winne rounds out the ‘knowledgeable and pragmatic‘ team, with a strong record in contentious insolvency matters.

Practice head(s):

Vanessa Marquette

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Knowledgeable and pragmatic.’

‘Vanessa Marquette provides insightful knowledge in complex matters.’

Key clients

Nordic capital

Aluminium Duffel BV

Pierre & Vacances

IRE

Cheyne SVC LLP

ISDA

Credendo

Former directors and/or managers of Nyrstar NV

Work highlights

  • Advising private equity fund Nordic Capital with respect to the insolvency of different companies of the FNG Group, including the restructuring of the remaining FNG Group companies and the enforcement of its pledge of Ellos shares.
  • Advising Aluminium Duffel on the urgent refinancing of the business by its main creditor, private equity fund American Industrial Partners and its speciality finance affiliate ICP, and on related insolvency issues.
  • Advised Pierre & Vacances group on the Belgian aspects of its cross-border restructuring in the context of the accelerated safeguard proceedings agreed with the creditor and approved by the general meeting of shareholders of the French holding.

Belgium > Not-for-profit Tier 2

Loyens & Loeff‘s cross-disciplinary not-for-profit team works with an array of associations and foundations operating across a range of sectors, including healthcare, infrastructure, aerospace, and chemicals. Helmed by market veteran Grégoire Jakhian, the group regularly advises on a host of governance compliance, employment, and other day-to-day advisory matters, as well as in proceedings before the domestic courts. Other names to note include highly experienced employment lawyer Filip Saelens, and senior associate Mélanie Schollaert, a specialist in corporate and contract law work.

Practice head(s):

Grégoire Jakhian

Key clients

Média-Participations (Dargaud – Lombard SA)

Africa Infrastructure Fellowship Program FUP / Meridiam SAS

Women in International Security (WIIS) – Brussels ASBL

European Institute of Peace / Institut européen de la Paix FUP

Michael & Susan Dell Foundation

Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft

Work highlights

  • Representing a subsidiary of Dargaud-Lombard SA in civil and criminal proceedings concerning a fraud (of which the client is one of the victims).
  • Assisting the public utility foundation Africa Infrastructure Fellowship Program (AIFP) from a contract and association law perspective.
  • Assisted Women in International Security (WIIS) -Brussels ASBL.

Belgium > Private equity Tier 2

Loyens & Loeff enjoys productive relationships with a number of global private equity funds such as Silver Lake, advising on international buyouts, minority investments, and exits, supporting its transactional work with in-house regulatory and tax expertise, alongside strong collaboration with its Benelux-wide investment management practice. The practice is headed up by Robrecht Coppens and Thomas Lenné, both prolific players in complex cross-border transactions in a wide range of industries. Senior associate Mathias Hendrickx is also a key member of the team, with notable specialisms in capital markets issues. Aubry Daerden left the firm.

Practice head(s):

Robrecht Coppens; Thomas Lenné

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘We worked with Robrecht Coppens and Mathias Hendrickx, who both did a fantastic job leading us through a very challenging transaction that spanned many months. The transaction was a complicated carve-out, and both coordinated the numerous workstreams very effectively. The team was willing to delve deep into the client’s, at times short-staffed, business to get workstreams over the fine.

‘Robrecht Coppens provides a very re-assuring presence during intense and often anxiety producing times. Genuinely knew our transaction documents inside out and was very involved in the deal. Mathias Hendrickx did a great job shepherding the transaction and staying on top of our very long checklist.

‘They are able to provide a full life cycle service for private equity funds in combination with their tax and investment management teams.’

‘Thomas Lenné is a great team player, dynamic, commercial and smart.’

Key clients

Platinum Equity Advisors, LLC

Kiniciti, LLC.

Sequoia Capital Global Equities

Snowflake Investment Holdings, Inc

Silver Lake

EQT AB

Pamplona Capital Management LLC

H.I.G. European Capital Partners

Spectrum Equity

Thoma Bravo

Summit Partners

Corel / KKR

Work highlights

  • Assisted Balta, a leading manufacturer of textile floor coverings, listed on Euronext Brussels (BALTA) and majority owned by Lone Star, the leading global private equity firm, with the sale of Balta’s Rugs, Residential polypropylene (Residential PP) and Non-Woven businesses, together with the Balta brand, to Victoria PLC.
  • Assisted the Corel Group and its owner KKR, in connection with the acquisition of all the shares in the Belgian company Awingu NV and its US subsidiary Awingu Inc.
  • Assisted H.I.G. European Capital Partners in the acquisition of 100% of the shares in the Belgian company Quick Restaurants SA.

Belgium > EU regulatory: Privacy and data protection Tier 3

Loyens & Loeff acts for domestic and international companies on the full range of data protection, privacy, and cybersecurity matters, including internal policies, personal and employee data transfers, and data breach response. The team also works in close collaboration with the firm’s disputes practice in data-related litigation, including proceedings before the Belgian DPA and European courts, as well as regularly advising digital economy clients. Key names in the practice include employment-focused Filip Saelens  alongside counsel and data specialist Stéphanie De Smedt.

Practice head(s):

Filip Saelens; Stéphanie De Smedt

Testimonials

‘Practical advice on complex matters – thorough knowledge of data protection – clearly explaining the risks and compliance steps’

‘Stéphanie De Smedt is highly available and responsive with practical and intelligible advice in complex matters. She understands the (legal) needs of technology driven companies.’

‘Stéphanie De Smedt is consistently excellent, and very responsive, in my experience.’

‘The Loyens & Loeff team consists of experts on various aspects within the privacy and data protection framework with experience from various jurisdictions, which makes them able to give a prompt high-quality advice to their multinational clients on data protection/privacy risks in cross-border and cross-disciplinary projects.’

‘In most cases we communicate directly with Stéphanie de Smedt. Stéphanie is able to always find a suitable communication approach depending on what client’s departments/functions are involved into a discussion of a project.’

‘The Loyens & Loeff DP team in Belgium shows great expertise and experience in EU and Belgium data protection law, specifically on fairly complex issues and interplay with other regulatory laws. The team is always responsive and efficient.’

‘Stéphanie de Smedt is an expert in the field of data protection, including on key and complex topics such as sensitive data, transfers outside of the EU and data protection impact assessments. She always provides pragmatic advice of a great quality as well as recommendations at a strategic level, taking into account the business needs and the reality of industry practice.’

‘They have a deep knowledge in digital matters. They are fast and efficient.’

Key clients

Balta Group

Arthrex

Akzo Nobel

Meta Ireland

Amazon

Ryanair

Work highlights

  • Represented Meta in court litigation.
  • Advised a health insurer on the implementation of a digital healthcare platform.
  • Conducted a large data privacy compliance project for a multinational industrial manufacturer.

Belgium > Industry focus: IT and telecoms Tier 4

The team at Loyens & Loeff  is knowledgeable in the full spectrum of IT & Telecoms mandates, including contract law and regulatory work. The practice also routinely aids clients by conducting due diligence on cross-border mergers, acquisitions and divestitures. Stéphanie De Smedt frequently advises clients on consumer protection laws in e-commerce, contractual liability risks, as well as IP. Disputes specialist Hakim Boularbah is another name to note.

Practice head(s):

Stéphanie De Smedt; Hakim Boularbah

Testimonials

‘We use the team for privacy breaches in Belgium. They are always on hand, even at weekends and provide a diligent, and impressive, work product.’

‘The privacy team is very good and provides pragmatic advice that is. Also commercial and good value for money.’

Key clients

Meta (Facebook)

Amazon

Amphenol

Infopro Digital Group

Omnivision Technologies

Proximus

Palo Alto Networks

Tata Consultancy Services

Tencent

Work highlights

  • Assisted Proximus, one of Belgium’s leading telecom providers, in court litigation.
  • Assisted Meta Platforms Ireland in court litigation.
  • Assisted OmniVision Technologies, one of the global leaders in semi-conductors design in their expansion to the Belgian market.

Belgium > Fraud and white-collar crime

Olivier van der Haegen and senior associate Clémence Van Muylder lead Loyens & Loeff‘s corporate criminal defence team, which has experience representing both victims and accused in a range of sectors.

Netherlands > Energy: transactional

Loyens & Loeff‘s energy and infrastructure practice group operates across the Netherlands and Belgium, where corporate partner Jan-Willem van Rooij and real estate and renewables specialist Koen Panis are the key names, respectively. The team acts for clients including banks, funds, and utility companies, on matters ranging from M&A to project development, where Van Rooij is particularly well regarded. Senior associate Victor van Nuland is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Jan-Willem van Rooij; Koen Panis

Other key lawyers:

Max Oosterhuis; Roland de Vlam; Victor van Nuland; Anne Brugmans

Testimonials

‘Very satisfied with the advice of the team: good balance between involvement and keeping distance. People are very dedicated, with timely responses to emails. Excellent knowledge of the energy market.’

‘Koen Panis and Victor van Nuland are very dedicated people, with knowledge and excellent communication skills.’

‘Strong content knowledge on wind energy deals. Quick response and high flexibility. Strong commitment.’

‘Very good experiences working with Victor van Nuland. Strong people and process management skills.’

Key clients

Plug Power Inc.

Consortium of APG and OMERS Infrastructure

Ørsted A/S

Vattenfall N.V.

Pure Energie

ING Bank N.V.

Re:cap Global Investors AG

Green & Durable Energy (part of Belgian Hasco Invest)

Work highlights

  • Advised Plug Power Inc. on approx. EUR 100 million acquisition of Frames Group
  • Advised the consortium of APG and OMERS Infrastructure on the acquisition of Groendus, the provider of an energy transition platform in the Netherlands
  • Advised Ørsted A/S on forming a consortium with a large European energy player and the auction process to acquire two 700MW offshore wind farm sites as part of the Holland Coast West Tender

One Firm: Law & Tax

We are proud of the unique service we offer multinational enterprises, financial institutions, investors and High Net-Worth Individuals from our home markets of the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg and Switzerland. With offices in key financial centres and a global partner network, we reach out and support you wherever you need.

As a leading law & tax firm in continental Europe, we have a particular focus on Private Equity & Funds, Real Estate, Life Sciences & Healthcare and Energy & Infrastructure. We integrate tax, civil law and notarial expertise to support you with smart and efficient solutions through advice, transactions and litigation.

As a trusted partner, the best advice is not just about expertise, but also about cultivating an in-depth understanding of your business and finding the best solution for you. This commitment is fundamental to our success.

Join us in going Further. Better. Together.

DepartmentNameEmailTelephone
Managing Partner, Banking and finance, Capital Markets, Corporate restructuring and insolvency, Regulatory Marc Vermylenmarc.vermylen@loyensloeff.com+32 2 743 43 15
Family-owned business and private wealth Nicolas Bertrandnicolas.bertrand@loyensloeff.com+32 2 743 23 46
Litigation and risk management, Corporate Litigation, International Arbitration, Asset Recovery Hakim BoularbahHakim.Boularbah@loyensloeff.com+32 2 773 23 50
Real estate, Investment Management Ariane Brohezariane.brohez@loyensloeff.com+32 2 743 43 21
Corporate Law, National and International M&A transactions, post-transaction dispute resolution Peter Callenspeter.callens@loyensloeff.com+32 2 743 43 95
Competition, Energy Thomas Chellingsworththomas.chellingsworth@loyensloeff.com+32 2 743 43 43
International Tawe Services, Tax Controversy and Litigation Christian Cheruychristian.cheruy@loyensloeff.com+32 2 743 43 03
Private equity Robrecht Coppensrobrecht.coppens@loyensloeff.com+32 2 700 10 12
Public and Administrative Law, Procurement Valentijn De BoeValentijn.De.Boe@loyensloeff.com+32 2 773 23 33
Employment, taxes and benefits, Alternative remuneration, Restructuring, Change Processes Kris De Schutterkris.de.schutter@loyensloeff.com+32 2 700 10 13
Data protection and privacy, Intellectual property, Life Sciences Stéphanie De SmedtStephanie.De.Smedt@loyensloeff.com+32 2 773 23 77
Coporate Income Tax, Transaction Tax Marc Dhaenemarc.dhaene@loyensloeff.com+32 2 743 43 22
Indirect Tax, International Trade Bert Geversbert.gevers@loyensloeff.com+32 2 743 43 18
Corporate Law, Cross-border M&A, Corporate Finance, Dispute Resolution, Aviation. Grégoire Jakhiangregoire.jakhian@loyensloeff.com+32 2 743 43 54
Investment Management, Real Estate Christophe Laurentchristophe.laurent@loyensloeff.com+32 2 743 43 05
Family-owned business and private wealth, International Asset Structuring. Saskia Lustsaskia.lust@loyensloeff.com+32 2 700 10 27
Food Law Kris De Schutterkris.de.schutter@loyensloeff.com++32 2 700 10 13
Banking & Finance, Energy, Real Estate Koen Paniskoen.panis@loyensloeff.com+32 2 773 23 90
International Tax Services, Transfer Pricing, Tax Compliance Natalie Reypensnatalie.reypens@loyensloeff.com+32 2 743 43 37
Employment and Benefits Filip Saelensfilip.saelens@loyensloeff.com+32 2 773 23 29
Corporate Law, National and International M&A, Corporate Restructuring Wim Vande Veldewim.vande.velde@loyensloeff.com+32 2 743 43 96
Banking and Finance, Private International Law Vanessa Marquettevanessa.marquette@loyensloeff.com+32 2 773 23 25
Litigation and risk management, Corporate Litigation, International Arbitration, Asset Recovery, Insolvency and Restructuring Olivier van der Haegenolivier.van.der.haegen@loyensloeff.com+32 2 773 23 52
Corporate Law, National and International M&A transactions, Corporate resstructuring, Private Equity Thomas Lennéthomas.lenne@loyensloeff.com+32 2 700 10 22
Tax, Corporate tax, European tax law, Corporate restructuring, Tax litigation Nicolas Lippensnicolas.lippens@loyensloeff.com+32 2 773 23 21
PhotoNamePositionProfile
Lien Bellinck photoMrs Lien BellinckFor more information, please click the following link: Lien Bellinck | Loyens…
Nicolas Bertrand photoMr Nicolas BertrandFor more information, please click the following link: Nicolas Bertrand | Loyens…
Hakim Boularbah photoMr Hakim BoularbahFor more information, please click the following link: Hakim Boularbah | Loyens…
Ariane Brohez photoMrs Ariane BrohezFor more information, please click the following link: Ariane Brohez | Loyens…
Peter Callens photoMr Peter CallensFor more information, please click the following link: Peter Callens | Loyens…
Thomas Chellingsworth photoMr Thomas ChellingsworthFor more information, please click the following link: Thomas Chellingsworth | Loyens…
Christian Chéruy photoMr Christian ChéruyFor more information, please click the following link: Christian Chéruy | Loyens…
Robrecht Coppens photoMr Robrecht CoppensFor more information, please click the following link: Robrecht Coppens | Loyens…
Valentijn De Boe photoMr Valentijn De BoeFor more information, please click the following link: Valentijn De Boe |…
Kris De Schutter photoMr Kris De SchutterFor more information, please click the following link: Kris De Schutter |…
Stéphanie De Smedt photoMrs Stéphanie De SmedtFor more information, please click the following link: Stéphanie De Smedt |…
Jens De Winne photoMr Jens De WinneFor more information, please click the following link: Jens De Winne |…
Christine Delagaye photoMiss Christine DelagayeFor more information, please click the following link: Christine Delagaye | Loyens…
Bram Devlies photoMr Bram DevliesFor more information, please click the following link: Bram Devlies | Loyens…
Marc Dhaene photoMr Marc DhaeneFor more information, please click the following link: Marc Dhaene | Loyens…
Mathias Diricx photoMr Mathias DiricxFor more information, please click the following link: Mathias Diricx | Loyens…
Caroline Docclo photoMrs Caroline DoccloFor more information, please click the following link: Caroline Docclo | Loyens…
Aldo Engels photoMr Aldo EngelsFor more information, please click the following click: Aldo Engels | Loyens…
Bert Gevers photoMr Bert GeversFor more information, please click the following link: Bert Gevers | Loyens…
Eveline Hellebuyck photoMrs Eveline HellebuyckFor more information, please click the following link: Eveline Hellebuyck | Loyens…
Mathias Hendrickx photoMr Mathias HendrickxFor more information, please click the following link: Mathias Hendrickx | Loyens…
Grégoire Jakhian photoMr Grégoire JakhianFor more information, please click the following link: Grégoire Jakhian | Loyens…
Filip Jorens photoMr Filip JorensFor more information, please click the following link: Filip Jorens | Loyens…
Christophe Laurent photoMr Christophe LaurentFor more information, please click the following link: Christophe Laurent | Loyens…
Julien Lecler photoMr Julien LeclerFor more information, please click the following link: Julien Lecler | Loyens…
Thomas Lenné photoMr Thomas LennéFor more information, please click the following link: Thomas Lenné | Loyens…
Sarah Libregts photoMiss Sarah LibregtsFor more information, please click the following link: Sarah Libregts | Loyens…
Nicolas Lippens photoMr Nicolas LippensFor more information, please click the following link: Nicolas Lippens | Loyens…
Saskia Lust photoMrs Saskia LustFor more information, please click the following link: Saskia Lust | Loyens…
Vanessa Marquette photoMrs Vanessa MarquetteFor more information, please click the following link: Vanessa Marquette | Loyens…
Koen Panis photoMr Koen PanisFor more information, please click the following link: Koen Panis | Loyens…
Natalie Reypens photoMrs Natalie ReypensFor more information, please click the following link: Natalie Reypens | Loyens…
Filip Saelens photoMr Filip SaelensFor more information, please click the following link: Filip Saelens | Loyens…
Mélanie Schollaert photoMiss Mélanie SchollaertFor more information, please click the following link: Mélanie Schollaert | Loyens…
Maria-Clara Van den Bossche photoMrs Maria-Clara Van den BosscheFor more information, please click the following link: Maria-Clara Van den Bossche…
Wim Vande Velde photoMr Wim Vande VeldeFor more information, please click the following link: Wim Vande Velde |…
Marc Vermylen photoMr Marc VermylenFor more information, please click the following link: Marc Vermylen | Loyens…
Olivier van der Haegen photoMr Olivier van der HaegenFor more information, please click the following link: Olivier van der Haegen…
Number of lawyers, tax advisers and civil law notaries : 952
at this office : 129
French
Dutch
English
German
IBA Internacional Bar Association
IFA (International Fiscal Association)
American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM)
Belgian Centre for Arbitration and Mediation (Cepani)
Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners (STEP)
International Chamber of Commerce (ICC)
AIJA - International Association of Young Lawyers
International Project Finance Association (IPFA)
- APEBI Moroccan Federation of Information Technology, Telecom and Offshoring (member of the board)
International Arbitration Institute
IBA (International Bar Association)
EELA (European Employment Lawyer Association)
ABA (American Bar Association)
Brussels Bar
LES (Licensing Executives Society)
IAPP
American Employment Law Council
Contact : Managing partner: Marc Vermylen
Other offices : Amsterdam
Other offices : London
Other offices : Luxembourg
Other offices : New York
Other offices : Paris
Other offices : Rotterdam
Other offices : Tokyo
Other offices : Zurich

Loyens & Loeff Belgium is delighted to announce the promotion of Julien Lecler as a Partner as of 1 July 2023

As a member of the Real Estate practice group active both in our Brussels and Luxembourg office, Julien Lecler has developed extensive knowledge and experience in all aspects of real estate law,