Rick van Aerssen has been Global Managing Partner of Freshfields, one of the world’s leading international law firms, since 2020. Based in Frankfurt and Düsseldorf, he combines firm leadership with a high-profile practice in M&A, governance, and capital markets for listed companies and major financial institutions. A partner for more than two decades, he has advised on many of the most high-profile transactions in Germany, across Europe, and transatlantic/transpacific, earning recognition for his commercial pragmatism, financial acumen, and a hands-on, direct leadership style.As Global Managing Partner and member of Freshfields’ Global Leadership Team, Rick is responsible for shaping and executing the firm’s strategy across Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, and Asia. His remit spans financial performance, client engagement, talent strategy, and the modernization of the firm’s platform, including responses to AI disruption and other market shifts to balance global reach with deep local expertise and guiding the firm through the evolving needs of multinational clients. Previously, Rick served as Global Head of Transactions for six years, driving collaboration across the firm’s transactional practices.
Freshfields is a global law firm with over 280 years’ experience of anticipating change, setting new standards and shaping the future of law. In a complex world where new opportunities evolve quickly, we are a trusted, forward-thinking partner who can give clients the edge and help propel their ambitions.At Freshfields we are steadfast champions of our clients — that’s why leading global companies turn to us when it matters most. We are proud to be recognised as a top-tier leader in the practice areas most important to clients around the world today.
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