A&O Shearman demonstrates expertise in restructuring and transformation processes, including downsizing measures, as well as advising on compensation and employee participation programs, although the team is also well versed in board advice, company pension schemes and HR compliance. Issues of collective bargaining and employment disputes are often handled by Thomas Ubber, making him one of the key contacts for collective bargaining and defense against impending strike action. The team is led by Markulf Behrendt (restructuring, litigation, compliance) and Sebastian Schulz, who is experienced in compensation issues and transaction-related employment matters, made partner in May 2024.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
'The team is extremely well informed on all issues relating to employment law and can always provide information and recommendations at a very high level. They always provide a quick answer that is very sound in terms of both content and facts.'
'A really very experienced team that is fully committed to the task and provides pragmatic support.'
Key clients
- BCS Automotive Interface Solutions/ Luxshare
- Venator Materials PLC
Work highlights
- Representation of BCS Automotive Interface Solutions/ Luxshare in negotiations on balancing of interests and social plan for plant closure with simultaneous spin-off of global structures and transfer to group companies, including enforcement and negotiation in conciliation board.
- Advice to Deutsche Bahn AG in the recently settled wage dispute with GDL, including interim injunction proceedings aimed at prohibiting strikes, as well as advice on GDL's collective bargaining capacity, including a procedure pursuant to Section 97 of the Labor Courts Act to determine that the GDL is incapable of bargaining. Procedures to enforce the majority collective agreements in the railway companies pursuant to Section 4a of the TVG. Also advice on wage dispute with the EVG union, as well as successful defense against a 50-hour strike and examination of any third-party claims against the client.