NautaDutilh’s employment and pensions team sets itself apart with in-depth knowledge and vast experience in assisting clients with employment and pension issues in complex and international M&A transactions and restructurings. The team handles all labour aspects of transactions, from due diligence and negotiation of collective bargaining agreements to post-transaction litigation. The practice also provides comprehensive day-to-day HR support, with specific industry expertise in logistics and warehousing, retail, and life sciences. Practice head Philippe François operates at the intersection between employment and corporate law.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Thierry Duquesne is an exceptional lawyer who I have worked with for over two decades. Throughout this time, he has consistently demonstrated outstanding legal expertise and unwavering dedication. He has the rare ability to quickly grasp complex employment matters and to master every detail of his dossiers, which makes his advice both precise and highly effective. What sets Thierry Duquesne apart is his absolute loyalty to his clients and his determination to defend their interests with rigour and integrity.'
- ‘I have had the privilege of working closely with this law firm and can attest to its distinctive position in the legal market. The firm is widely recognized for its client-focused approach and its ability to deliver tailored legal solutions that address complex and evolving business needs. The team is composed of attorneys who possess not only technical proficiency but also a nuanced understanding of the industries they serve.'
- 'Clients benefit from the team's proactive communication, strategic insight, and collaborative mindset, which enable them to anticipate challenges and seize opportunities with confidence. Compared to other firms, this practice distinguishes itself by fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. The firm's commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident both in its recruitment practices and in the diverse perspectives represented at all levels of the organization.’
- 'The individuals I have worked with at the firm truly exemplify excellence. Across the board, team members are approachable, responsive, and deeply invested in their clients' success.’
- ‘Strong team, super knowledgeable and easy to work with.’
- ‘Philippe François is user-friendly, responsive, strategic.’
Key clients
- Abilis
- Banque Transatlantique
- Basic-Fit
- Carpenter Technology Europe
- Cerba Healthcare
- Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc
- Colruyt
- Courir
- Dynaco Europe
- Engie
- Exki
- Fiege Logistik
Work highlights
Advised Novo Nordisk on the Belgian employment law aspects in the framework of the acquisition of Catalent, as well as the employment-related matters post-closing concerning the harmonisation of employment terms and conditions
Advised Colruyt on the employment aspects of the acquisition of approximately 40 competitor stores (Delitraiteur).
Advised FedEx on a complex collective dismissal of 359 employees and the closure of its Nivelles business unit, ensuring a smooth consultation process and enabling the timely execution of its global restructuring plan for 2025.
Practice head
Philippe François
Other key lawyers
Thierry Duquesne; Frédérique Czanik; Alix de la Barre