Brussels law firm Van Bael & Bellis is to introduce a new corporate structure from 1 June 2019. Under the new structure, founding and co-managing partner, Jean-François Bellis, will become chairman of the firm whilst co-managing partner, Philippe De Baere, will be the sole managing partner. Meanwhile Andrzej Kmiecik will take over as head of the firm’s EU competition practice.

Eminent practitioner

Mr Bellis has led the firm since its inception in 1986 and is widely recognised as one of the eminent practitioners in the field of EU competition and trade law. In his new role as chairman, he will continue to remain active in his practice, working directly with clients and contributing to the development of the firm through his case work. While he will remain a key member of the EU competition team, senior competition partner, Andrzej Kmiecik, will act as head of the EU competition practice. 

Head of international trade

Mr De Baere has been a partner at Van Bael & Bellis since 1994. In September 2016, he was appointed co-managing partner. He will continue to act as head of the international trade practice and will be active in shaping the firm’s continued development and direction. Commenting on the new structure, he said: 'This is an exciting time for Van Bael & Bellis and I am honoured to step into this role. I am committed to building on the firm’s legacy of first-rate legal expertise and outstanding client care. We are witnessing more rapid change than at any other time in our history. Our role is to make sure that we put our clients and their needs first, so that we can continue delivering more value to their businesses.'

High-profile EU cases 

Mr Andrzej has been involved in several of the most high-profile EU cases and investigations, particularly with regard to cartels, merger control proceedings and distribution and licensing.  Mr Bellis said of his appointment: 'I am pleased to see Andrzej step into the role of head of the EU competition practice. He is a talented practitioner with longstanding experience. He has served as a key partner in the competition law team for many years and his leadership of the team is a natural progression.'

Brussels and Geneva

Van Bael & Bellis’ Brussels and Geneva offices now include 22 partners, 6 senior counsel, 5 counsel and 35 associates. The firm is based in Brussels with a second office in Geneva dedicated to WTO matters.