Van Doorne has continued to increase its bench strength in the dispute resolution practice with the hire of Ralph Ubels from NautaDutilh, further bolstering its financial litigation offering. Ubels is noted for working on disputes involving duty of care and financial regulatory issues. The sizeable team handles large commercial litigation, class actions and corporate litigation for domestic and international clients. It often acts in cross-border cases and acts as international co-counsel with overseas law firms on particularly complex disputes. Shareholder disputes before the Enterprise Chamber, and financial, restructuring and insolvency litigation are all notable pillars of the practice. Daan Beenders leads the team from Amsterdam and specialises in liability law, procedural law and class actions. Jasper Leedekerken handles civil liability issues; Sjoerd Kamerbeek is a corporate litigation specialist; and Lisette Bieleveld focuses on contractual litigation.
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Profile

Profile

Work Department

Corporate Law: Corporate Governance, Venture Capital; Dispute Resolution, Insurance Law: Arbitration, Litigation, Commercial Litigation, Corporate Litigation, Insurance Law; European & Competition Law: Competition Litigation

Position

As corporate law specialist, Sjoerd advises and litigates for internationally renowned clients on M&A, warranty & indemnity (insurances), investment(-losses) and more generally commercial and corporate disputes. Sjoerd is specifically focussed on disputes between board members, shareholders', and other key stakeholders. In doing so, he frequently acts before the Enterprise Chamber of the Court of Amsterdam. He also acts for the largest international (hedge) funds on their shareholder activist campaigns in the Netherlands. Finally, he assists with strategic M&A in connection with takeover and shareholder disputes.

Sjoerd frequently publishes articles on various corporate topics. Further, Sjoerd is regularly a guest lecturer on social entrepreneurship at Utrecht University. He is also a co-founder of and member of the advisory board to the Utrecht University Social Entrepreneurship Initiative.

Career

Sjoerd graduated cum laude in law and economics from both Utrecht University and VU University Amsterdam. In 2015 Sjoerd obtained an Executive MBA at the Rotterdam School of Management. He became a partner at Van Doorne in 2018, being one of the youngest ever appointed at a large law firm. In 2023, at the age of 36, he has been appointed Managing Partner of Van Doorne.

Honors & Awards:
One of the 35 younger than 35, “Advocatenblad”: the best 35 lawyers younger than 35 in 2016
Young Talent MenA.nl 2014
Top 10 Best Young Law Professional 2013
Winner Nudge Leadership Challenge: Best Young Leader in Sustainability 2012

Languages

Dutch, English

Education

Sjoerd graduated cum laude in law and economics from both Utrecht University and VU University Amsterdam. In 2015 Sjoerd obtained an Executive MBA at the Rotterdam School of Management. He became a partner at Van Doorne in 2018, being one of the youngest ever appointed at a large law firm. Over the years, he has been consistently recognized as one of the best young lawyers on the market.

Content supplied by Van Doorne

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The team has been expanding impressively, bringing together a group of highly talented individuals who are dedicated to delivering exceptional results. Their diverse backgrounds and expertise contribute to a comprehensive approach that effectively addresses the unique challenges clients face. What truly sets this practice apart is the way it is managed. The leadership fosters an environment that emphasises quality in every aspect of their work, ensuring that clients receive the highest standard of legal support.’

  • ‘Lisette Bieleveld is the expert in the Netherlands in distribution and commercial law cases. She is very focused, smart and just a great person. ’

  • ‘Daan Beenders stands out as a partner in the commercial litigation practice. He consistently demonstrates the ability to grasp the intricacies of a situation quickly, ensuring that he addresses not just the legal aspects but also the business implications for his clients. What truly sets Daan Beenders apart from competitors is his quick and creative legal thinking. Working with Daan has been a remarkable experience; his dedication and expertise provide immense value, and I highly recommend him to anyone seeking a knowledgeable and results-driven legal partner.’

  • ‘Van Doorne has made a strong mark in the legal sector, demonstrating considerable strength and a well-established reputation. The practice consistently provides high-quality services that address the complex needs of its clients through a pragmatic approach to legal issues. This enables them to offer clear, actionable advice without unnecessary complications, which is highly valued by clients. Overall, the combination of highly skilled lawyers and a collaborative mindset positions Van Doorne as a formidable competitor in the legal arena.’

  • ‘Daan Beenders has a significant influence on the legal landscape as a leading lawyer known for his expertise and strategic insight. His capacity to foresee challenges and look beyond immediate concerns sets him apart from others in his field. With a deep understanding of market dynamics, Daan excels in high-stakes situations where urgency is paramount. His notable presence highlights his status as a key player, earning respect for his contributions and enthusiasm. Clients appreciate his legal expertise and personal approach, making him a distinguished lawyer in his field.’

  • ‘The depth of knowledge and its breadth is striking within Van Doorne's team. With Daan Beenders, Jasper Leederkerken and Sjoerd Kamerbeek heading this team, quality is guaranteed. Without hesitation, the work can be in their hands. As clients, you are safe there. Furthermore, they are extremely accessible and approachable. Van Doorne's commercial litigation team is top-notch!’

  • ‘For me Daan Beenders, Jasper Leederkerken and Sjoerd Kamerbeek standout. They also keep the broader picture in mind. And all three are really easy going.’

  • ‘Van Doorne's practice is unique for its sector knowledge and strong focus on innovation. The team has exceptional capabilities in handling complex transactions and disputes. They are proactive and client-centric. Van Doorne is distinguished by its commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility.’

Key clients

  • Stichting Administratiekantoor Aandelen Triodos Bank
  • N.V. Waterbedrijf Groningen
  • KPMG
  • Trentop
  • Rabobank
  • GGD GHOR
  • Scandanavia Tobacco
  • Funda
  • TMF
  • LG
  • Dutch State Lottery
  • JBT Food & Dairy
  • Benelux Wonen
  • Transact
  • Liberty
  • Pon
  • ABN AMRO Bank
  • NIBC Bank
  • STG
  • Nationale Nederlanden
  • Dutch Social Housing Corporation (WSW)
  • Ahold Delhaize
  • Port of Rotterdam
  • PVH / Tommy Hilfiger
  • Mediq
  • Domino’s
  • Friesland Campina
  • AIG
  • Markel
  • Liberty GTS
  • ADG
  • Domino’s
  • Athora
  • LyondellBasell
  • Swapfiets
  • Trivium
  • Ryan M&A
  • CEVA Logistics

Work highlights

Represented GGD GHOR in a class action claim as defendants following a data breach involving the loss of patients' testing data.
Represented KPMG in its dispute vis-à-vis the bankruptcy trustee of Imtech.
Assisted the Dutch State Lottery with various proceedings in relation to customers who claim to have been misled by certain statements made by the Dutch State Lottery.