Bird & Bird expands its employment practice with the appointment of Pieter De Koster as partner in Brussels

Pieter, who has over 30 years of experience advising on issues relating to employment and benefits, joins from the Belgian law firm Strelia. Prior to his time at Strelia, he was a partner at Allen & Overy in Brussels, where he led the firm's Belgian and International Employment Practice for more than 10 years. Pieter is one of the most well-known employment lawyers in Belgium and one of the few with real international experience. Over the past 15 years, Pieter has consistently been ranked as a leading employment lawyer in all the major legal directories. 

Joining with Pieter from Strelia is Counsel Cecilia Lahaye, who specialises in employment law and civil litigation.

Anne Federle, Head of Bird & Bird's Brussels office says: "We are thrilled to welcome Pieter and Cecilia to our Brussels office. Pieter is one of the most respected employment lawyers in Belgium and brings with him a wealth of expertise in Belgian and international employment matters. His experience in complex employment litigation and boardroom advisory work will strengthen the capabilities of our employment team to support clients on their most challenging and high-profile HR issues. At a time of vast uncertainty due to Brexit, his expertise will also be valued by clients as they navigate changing employment structures." 

Ian Hunter, Co-Head of Bird & Bird's employment practice comments:  "We are delighted to welcome Pieter and Cecilia to Bird & Bird. Their recruitment is an important part of our growth strategy in the employment practice. Pieter's extensive expertise in employment law and civil litigation will bolster the practice both in Brussels and across the firm's international offices."  

Pieter adds: "I am delighted to join the employment team at Bird & Bird. The firm's large international footprint will allow me to offer clients employment law support in Belgium and across the globe. I look forward to joining Bird & Bird's dynamic and fast growing employment practice and working with my new colleagues in Brussels and around the world."