2025: Embracing Ambition, Excellence and Continuity

At the beginning of this year, it is time to reflect on a remarkable year for Van Cutsem Wittamer Marnef. Between successfully handling strategic cases for many of our clients, notable awards and achievements, 2024 reflects the positive dynamic of the firm. 2025 also brings along  an important transition: Pierre Van Fraeyenhoven, Managing Partner for 5 years, has handed over the reins to Ariane Destrycker, who now leads with a forward-looking vision. Together, they look back on the highlights of 2024 and share their ambitions for 2025, a year full of challenges and opportunities.

2024: A year of success

Recognised excellence and international accolades

In 2024, van Cutsem Wittamer Marnef reinforced its position as one of the leading law firms in Belgium and internationally. The firm received multiple distinctions from Leaders League for its expertise in Banking & Finance, Commercial Litigation, Corporate/M&A, Corporate Tax, Labour & Employment, Real Estate, and Wealth Management. Furthermore, Herman Lemaire was recognised for the 19th consecutive year by Chambers Global for his expertise in corporate law and M&A in Belgium, as well as his role as a foreign expert for Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Attracting and retaining talent: the foundation of excellence

In 2024, van Cutsem Wittamer Marnef reaffirmed its ability to attract top-tier professionals and retain its leading experts, strengthening the very foundation of its success. This dynamic has allowed the firm to reinforce its internal capabilities and proactively prepare for the challenges ahead.

Strategic reflections and intergenerational dialogue

In a highly competitive legal market, maintaining the firm’s attractiveness remains a key challenge. To this end, the partners convened for a Partner Retreat, a strategy-focused offsite event fostering in-depth discussions on how to meet the expectations of new generations while preserving the balance and human scale that define the firm.

The objective is clear: to strengthen team engagement, attract and retain top talent and facilitate intergenerational dialogue to ensure seamless knowledge transfer.

A notable leadership and a symbolic transition

After five years of exemplary leadership, Pierre Van Fraeyenhoven is set to transfer his role as Managing Partner to Ariane Destrycker. This transition represents more than a mere structural change—it embodies renewal and a forward-looking vision.

Pierre Van Fraeyenhoven’s extended tenure as Managing Partner was largely shaped by the exceptional challenges of the Covid-19 crisis, which emerged shortly after his appointment. His leadership during this period was instrumental in ensuring the firm’s stability and resilience in the face of unprecedented difficulties.

This transition is being carried out in close collaboration with the firm’s partners to ensure a smooth and harmonious handover, fully aligned with van Cutsem Wittamer Marnef’s strategic ambitions. By appointing a woman to this key leadership role, the firm also reaffirms its commitment to diversity—a decisive step in a sector where female partners remain significantly underrepresented.

2025 projections: Innovation and international reinforcement

A thoughtful approach to technological transition

Artificial intelligence keeps transforming industries, and the legal sector is no exception. These technologies offer an invaluable opportunity to optimize processes and provide more efficient and tailored services to clients. At van Cutsem Wittamer Marnef, these tools are already being implemented to streamline certain tasks.

The firm believes that AI should not replace human expertise but complement it. As part of this philosophy, van Cutsem Wittamer Marnef keeps  investing in deliberate targeted technological solutions specifically designed to meet clients’ needs while ensuring strict data confidentiality and compliance.

A strengthened international presence

Against a backdrop of geopolitical complexity, the firm keeps reinforcing its international reach, providing comprehensive and strategic legal support to its clients. Increasingly sought after by foreign companies, van Cutsem Wittamer Marnef advises on a wide range of cross-border legal matters, from complex commercial contracts and restructuring to regulatory compliance and governance. This integrated approach positions the firm as a key partner for businesses operating in a globalised legal environment.

Ambitious perspectives

van Cutsem Wittamer Marnef plans to reinforce its IT department as part of its ongoing growth strategy. This initiative reflects the firm’s commitment to evolving with legal innovation and anticipating clients’ needs in an ever-changing environment.

The firm also continues to strengthen its presence within its international networks, including Multilaw and Mackrell International, reaffirming its global reach and strategic positioning.

• Learn more about our international networks

Upon taking office, Ariane Destrycker places a strong emphasis on fostering knowledge transfer across generations. She will also actively involve young professionals in strategic projects, reinforcing the essential synergy between experience and innovation.

Looking ahead to 2025: Continuity and ambition

Guided by its core values of trust, proximity, and a human-centred approach, van Cutsem Wittamer Marnef approaches 2025 with optimism. Whether it is embracing technological advancements, expanding its international presence, or supporting its clients in an increasingly complex environment, the firm stands ready to anticipate market transformations while safeguarding its independence and commitment to excellence.

With a resolute focus on the future, van Cutsem Wittamer Marnef reaffirms its ambition to shape the future of the legal landscape with boldness and vision.