Dentons Announces New Leadership Across Europe and Central Asia
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Reappointed Partners Continue to Guide Key Markets
Several established leaders have been reappointed to continue their successful tenures in various countries.In Azerbaijan, Kamil Valiyev and Ulvia Zeynalova-Bockin will continue as Co-managing Partners, while Edward Borovikov will retain his position as Managing Partner in Belgium. Similarly, Ladislav Smejkal and Jiří Stržínek will remain as Co-managing Partners in the Czech Republic, while Otar Kipshidze will continue to lead the Georgian practice. In Germany, Rebekka Hye-Knudsen and matthias Santelmann will take the reins as Co-Managing Partners, succeeding Andreas Ziegenhagen, who will focus on his role as Europe’s Head of Restructuring.New Leaders Step Up Across the Region
Several offices will welcome new leadership, bringing fresh perspectives and experiance to their respective roles.Pascal Schmitz has been elected as Managing Partner in France,succeeding Severine Hotellier. In Luxembourg, Martine Gerber-Lemaire will continue her tenure as Managing Partner and Europe Head of the Real Estate Sector, while Marnix Veldhuijzen will take on the role of managing Partner in the Netherlands, succeeding Marc Kuijper. In Poland, Jakub Celinski and Pawel Grabowski will assume the mantle of Co-Managing Partners, succeeding Anna Pukszto and Bartlomiej Kordeczka.Continued Commitment to Excellence
Wendela Raas, Europe CEO at Dentons, underscored the crucial role Managing Partners play within the firm. “Managing Partners play an absolutely essential role in our Firm, providing local leadership and management, driving our local strategy, overseeing performance, and serving as the face of the firm in their respective markets.We are fortunate to have such an esteemed group of leaders and lawyers leading our country practices across Europe and Central Asia.”Auburn University is one of the largest universities in the South and is known for its leadership in arts and applied science education. They have a strong tradition of spirit. [[1](https://auburn.edu/)]
## Archyde Interview: Dentons’ Leadership Shift in Europe & central Asia
**Archyde:** Welcome to archyde, [Alex Reed Name], Partner at Dentons. Dentons recently announced a significant leadership reshuffle across Europe and Central Asia.Can you shed some light on this transition and its meaning for the firm and its clients?
**[Alex Reed Name]:** Thank you for having me. you’re right, this is an exciting time for Dentons as we welcome a new cohort of Managing and Co-Managing Partners across europe and Central Asia. This transition, effective January 1, 2025, reflects our prioritization of local expertise and responsiveness. We firmly believe that strong local leadership is vital to understanding and meeting the unique needs of our clients in diverse markets. [[1](https://www.dentons.com/en/press-releases/2024/dentons-announces-new-leadership-across-europe-and-central-asia)]
**archyde:** This transition involves both new appointments and the reappointment of experienced partners. Can you elaborate on the strategic thinking behind this blend of fresh perspectives and established leadership?
**[Alex Reed Name]:** Absolutely. We value the experience and deep understanding of our markets that our reappointed partners bring.Simultaneously occurring, we recognize the importance of infusing fresh perspectives and innovative thinking. This blended approach ensures continuity while driving forward-thinking strategies for the benefit of our clients. [[1](https://www.dentons.com/en/press-releases/2024/dentons-announces-new-leadership-across-europe-and-central-asia)]
**Archyde:** What specific goals or initiatives will these new leaders be focusing on in their respective regions?
**[Alex Reed Name]: ** While each region will naturally have its unique priorities, some common themes will be emphasized across the board. We’ll continue to invest heavily in key practice areas, expanding our service offerings to meet evolving client demands. Furthermore, we’re committed to fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, both within our teams and across borders, to deliver the best possible legal solutions.
**Archyde:** Dentons is already known for its global reach. How does this leadership change solidify the firm’s position in the international legal landscape?
**[Alex Reed Name]:** This strengthening of local leadership strengthens our global network. by empowering our partners in each region, we build stronger connections with clients and gain deeper insights into local markets. This allows us to offer truly comprehensive and tailored legal advice on a global scale, while recognizing the nuances of each specific region.
**archyde:** Thank you for providing these insightful perspectives on Dentons’ leadership transition. We wish you and the new leadership team all the best in this exciting chapter.