Olivier Mignolet > Simmons & Simmons > Brussels, Belgium > Lawyer Profile

The healthcare and life sciences team at Simmons & Simmons is differentiated by its niche expertise in blood-based medicines, in vitro diagnostic medical devices, biopharmaceutical products, and advanced therapy products. Olivier Mignolet oversees the firm’s Brussels office, and regularly leads on complex regulatory mandates along with Annabelle Bruyndonckx; between them, the duo cover the gamut of matters, from research and development, to production, to marketing authorisation.

Exhibiting ‘outstanding‘ proficiency in handling regulatory matters concerning medical devices and biopharmaceutical products, Simmons & Simmons is noted for advising a notable client base which includes GlaxoSmithKline, Haleon, and Sanofi. The ‘very balanced and effective‘ Olivier Mignolet and Annabelle Bruyndonckx lead the team. Mignolet has vast knowledge of regulatory issues and commercial litigation, while Bruyndonckx maintains a medtech and digital healthcare-focused practice, often advising global biotech and pharmaceutical companies on qualification, product liability, and marketing authorisation issues, supported by Nele Jonckers, who has a great deal of knowledge in handling cross-border compliance matters. Alexander Wenzel joined the practice from Cooley LLP, contributing his deep experience in advising biotech manufacturers.

Simmons & Simmons‘ disputes practice acts in high-profile litigation and arbitration, with particular expertise in the life sciences and financial sectors; the chemicals, fashion, and hospitality industries are also key areas of strength for the team. Olivier Mignolet and Annabelle Bruyndonckx lead the team, and are praised for being ‘very competent lawyers with a high attention to detail‘. Also of note is Jérémie Doornaert, who brings ‘strong knowledge of the pharma sector‘ to the practice.

Best known for its work in the life sciences, TMT and financial services sectors, Simmons & Simmons leverages its contentious prowess to handle data protection-related mandates on behalf of clients from these industries. Olivier Mignolet and Alejandro Guerrero provide dispute resolution and TMT expertise respectively, while Jérémie Doornaert is the key GDPR specialist.