Employment

Lydian

Characterised by ‘a compelling blend of local expertise and international perspective’, Lydian’s employment, pensions and benefits team offers expertise to both global and domestic clients. Its deep bench includes experts in pensions, internal investigations, and health and safety. Department co-head Jan Hofkens is regularly sought after for his longstanding expertise regarding internal workplace investigations and disciplinary proceedings against employees, and Alexander Vandenbergen, co-heading the team alongside Hofkens, takes the lead on pensions and benefits matters. Collective labour law issues are an area of focus for Jurgen De Vreese, and Kato Aerts takes on sensitive, multi-national mandates. The team’s cross-departmental health practice is led by Eveline Ankaert.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘High-end labour and employment team with a distinguished international profile, embedded in one of Belgium's top law firms - in other words: the full package!’
'Kato Aerts is a star not only in Belgium, but already in the international L&E community.’
‘I have a wonderful collaboration with Eveline Ankaert. She has an in-depth knowledge of employment-related themes.'
‘Lydian provides detailed, considered advice, and has been very thorough in handling any employment-related queries we have asked for their assistance on. I would have no hesitation in recommending the team.’
‘Their ability to go through information forensically, to advise of developments in a timely manner, and to make themselves available when necessary. ’
‘Lydian’s unique position as an independent, mid-sized Belgian firm with a global reach provides a compelling blend of local expertise and international perspective. Its strengths in sector specialization, innovative solutions, and client-centered approach make it a top choice for businesses seeking strategic legal advice.'
‘What sets Lydian’s individuals apart from competitors is their depth of sector knowledge, their proactive and innovative approach to problem-solving, and their collaborative spirit.'
'Jurgen De Vreese's sharp analytical mind, combined with a strategic approach to dispute resolution, sets him apart. He consistently helps clients navigate high-stakes disputes, focusing on finding the most effective path forward—whether that involves litigation, negotiation, or alternative dispute resolution.'

Key clients

Capgemini
Ethias
Bekaert
14 - Limited distribution -
AG Insurance
Unilever
Essenscia
Flanders Investment & Trade
Visit Flanders
Water-link
Scandinavian Tobacco Group
Landewyck Group
Nike
Walt Disney
UPS
Tereos Group
Henkel
AIG
Yokohama
McAfee
Royal & Sun Alliance
Nippon Express (Belgium) NV
Bloomberg
Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP
Blackberry
DKV (Munich re)
British American Tobacco
Takeda Pharmaceutical Company
Baloise
Société Wallonne des Eaux
Booking.com
Flemish Radio & Television Broadcasting Company
Generali Belgium
Airbus
Banijay Group
Centerparcs
Plukon Food Group
Radisson Blu Hotel Group
Van Der Valk hotels
Barry Callebaut
Ebury
Uniqlo
Stater
Keyence
LKQ
Wunderman Thompson
Solvay
Novelis
Carrefour
15 - Limited distribution -
Cargill
Puratos
Worldwide Flight Services
The Belgian Federal Ministry of Pensions
Citribel
Britvic
Retailors
Imperial
Saab
Euro Heat Pipes
Dejbox (Carrefour Group)
Goed Farma
Citribel
World Customs Organization
Orica
Harvey Nash
Cotac
Selecta
Brunello Cuccinelli
Wolford
Svens Handel
Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Bilfinger
Mc Donald’s Belgium NV
Estée Lauder Cosmetics NV
Aperam Stainless Belgium NV
Ethias
MSC
ABB
Elke Van Hoof / Huis voor Veerkracht
Towers Watson LifeSight OFP
Neuhaus
T.C.R. Belgium / T.C.R. International

Work highlights

Acting as compliance officer to Towers Watson LifeSight OFP, a multi-employer pension fund set up by WTW.
Assisting Nike in all labor and employment matters on a daily basis.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame

The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.