PRESS RELEASE – HGF strengthens European presence with three new Partners in France and Germany

HGF is pleased to announce the arrival of three new partners, further strengthening its European presence. Two partners will be joining the firm’s fast-growing French practice, and one will join our accomplished team in Munich, Germany.

The appointments mark another milestone in HGF’s European expansion strategy following its recent private equity investment in 2024. The investment has provided both the capital and confidence to accelerate growth, supporting the firm’s clear and ambitious plan to broaden its capabilities across key markets.

1. Laurent Barbe – Patent Partner in Paris, September 1st

Our French practice under the leadership of Vivien Verbrugge has continued to grow and attract attention from clients and new talent. Laurent joins the HGF team in France from Gevers. Previously, he was a global IP counsel and is highly respected in mechanical technical fields, including aeronautics, automotive, and packaging. His appointment further expands the firm’s team in this innovation-driven market.

Laurent commented, “I am thrilled to join HGF and to participate actively in the growth of HGF in France and Europe. With my enthusiasm for complex technologies and commitment to delivering innovative solutions, I look forward to supporting our clients in unlocking the full value of their innovations and contributing to their long-term success.”

2. Dr Benoît Liénard – Patent Partner in Paris, September 1st

Benoît joins Laurent as a Patent Partner, also based in Paris. Benoît has extensive experience and expertise in Life Sciences covering a wide range of technical fields, including agrochemistry, chemical biology, microbiology, pharmaceuticals, analytical chemistry, biotechnology, cosmetics, medtech, phytochemistry, polymers, food, water treatment, and green chemistry. His appointment further strengthens the team’s capabilities in these diverse and fast-evolving sectors.

Benoît commented, “After nearly two decades working across the IP landscape, from large firms and in-house counsel to start-up creation and firm management, I have seen how transformative a well-tailored IP strategy can be for innovative businesses. For me, the key lies in aligning IP strategy with clients’ commercial objectives and in fully unlocking the value of their science. HGF’s integrated expertise and collaborative approach create the ideal environment to support biotech start-ups in realising their full potential, and I am excited to contribute to this mission.”

3. Felix Daul – Patent Partner in Munich, September 1st

Felix joins the HGF team in Germany as a Patent Partner based in Munich, bringing experience in all areas of intellectual property and attracting work across a wide range of industries. With deep expertise in engineering, electronics, and standard-essential patents in mobile communications, Felix also brings substantial litigation experience before the German Regional Courts, the Federal Court of Justice, and the UPC. His appointment further strengthens the firm’s litigation and prosecution capabilities in one of Europe’s most competitive IP markets.

Felix commented, “ I am thrilled to be part of a dynamic, growing firm with the ambition to be Europe’s IP firm of choice. With my innovative mindset and enthusiasm for complex technologies, I look forward to contributing to the continued success of our clients.”

For further comment please contact Jacqui Weston at +44 (0)113 233 0100, jweston@hgf.com.