Employment in Austria

Binder Grösswang

Providing an ‘excellent level of service’, Binder Grösswang‘s ‘very well-established employment practice’ is especially recommended for advising on mass redundancies, social plan negotiations, terminations, and management changes, with clients regularly instructing the team to handle issues in the finance and manufacturing sectors. The team is jointly steered by Horst Lukanec and Angelika Pallwein-Prettner: Lukanec offers particular experience with employment matters in the context of corporate restructurings and regularly represents clients in contentious proceedings, while Pallwein-Prettner chiefly handles matters at the intersection of data protection and employment law. Sabine Apfl-Trompeter covers employment aspects of M&A and also regularly advises on redundancies.

Responsables de la pratique:

Horst Lukanec; Angelika Pallwein-Prettner


Autres avocats clés:

Sabine Apfl-Trompeter; Johannes Bammer


Les références

‘Expertise, great international network, high responsiveness.’

‘Very well-established employment practice that provides ready-to-use solutions based on an understanding of client’s background and needs.’

‘The team and their service is great.’

Principaux clients

IMS Nanofabrication GmbH


AniCura Austria Holding GmbH


BNP Paribas S.A.


Capgemini Consulting Österreich AG


Ifm Electronic GmbH


Burgenland Energie AG


Granite AUT GmbH


IPG Mediabrands


Klarna Bank


MAN Truck & Bus Vertrieb Österreich GmbH


RSM Austria Wirtschaftsprüfung GmbH


Austro dent GmbH


Glacier Carbon Reduction GmbH


Magic AI Inc


STIHL Tirol GmbH


UNEEG medical A/S


Smurfit Kappa Nettingsdorfer Papierfabrik AG & Co KG


Starbucks Coffee Austria GmbH


Foot Locker Europe B.V.


TripAdvisor LLC


Positec Germany GmbH


Sumetzberger GmbH


BigBus Vienna GmbH


Tony’s Chocolonely Austria GmbH


Radware GmbH


Kärntner Beteiligungsverwaltung


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Corza Medical GmbH on the employment law aspects of the acquisition of the manufacturing business of TachoSil.
  • Advised Opel Bank S.A. and Peugeot Bank Deutschland GmbH in connection with the Europe-wide restructuring of Stellantis’ partnership with various financial service providers.

Cerha Hempel

Cerha Hempel acts as exclusive employment law counsel for numerous companies and is well-equipped to handle the employment aspects of sale and purchase agreements, while also regularly leveraging its contentious expertise to represent clients in court proceedings. Julian Feichtinger leads the team alongside Christopher Peitsch and specialises in litigation, with his expertise covering the full spectrum of individual and collective labour and employment law. Described by clients as the ‘perfect sparring partner for a company that has an employment law problem’, Peitsch also has extensive in-court experience and maintains close relationships with clients in a range of sectors, including retail, aviation, health care, and construction. Nina Neumaier joined the team from Binder Grösswang in September 2022 and offers niche expertise in diversity-related matters. Susanne Molitoris is another key contact.

Responsables de la pratique:

Julian Feichtinger; Christopher Peitsch


Autres avocats clés:

Nina Neumaier; Susanne Molitoris


Les références

‘Very friendly, very fast and professional processing of requests and pragmatic approaches.’

‘Christopher Peitsch is very kind and friendly, sympathetic and very helpful.’

‘The team not only shows a high level of knowledge and understanding but in most cases offers a wide range of alternative solutions, based on their day-to-day experience. ’

Principaux clients

PRIMARK


Flughafen Wien


Ecolab Group


SV Group


Dentsu Aegies Network


Emirates


Lead Horizon


GATX


Kyocera AVX


Ritter Sport


Universität für Bodenkultur


Knorr Bremse


Transaktionssysteme Austria


Unibail Rodamco Westfield


ERGO Versicherung AG


Philip Morris


Boeing


Tod’s


CMS Reich-Rohrwig Hainz Rechtsanwälte GmbH

CMS Reich-Rohrwig Hainz Rechtsanwälte GmbH fields a market-leading team of experts that comfortably operates across the whole spectrum of employment law, with areas of expertise including antidiscrimination, EU, and working time law as well as litigation before courts and other authorities. The team is headed by Bernhard Hainz alongside Christoph Wolf and acts in various industries, with particular knowledge of the consumer products, financial services, and consulting sectors. Hainz’ workload includes the negotiation of collective agreements and social plans, while Wolf’s practice focuses on the intersection of labour and compliance issues. Specialising in European labour law, Daniela Krömer was appointed as a partner in May 2023 and co-heads the firm’s international employment law group.

Responsables de la pratique:

Bernhard Hainz; Christoph Wolf


Autres avocats clés:

Andrea Potz; Jens Winter; Andreas Jöst; Daniela Krömer


Les références

‘The service is always impeccable and the quality of the work is state of the art. They meet every deadline, even if there is a tight one.’

‘Andrea Potz and her team always deliver high-quality documents. Additionally, the consulting services are easy to schedule, amiable, and give clients different perspectives to find the most suitable solutions.’

 

Principaux clients

A1 Telekom Austria AG


Telekom Austria Personalmanagement GmbH


Österreichische Post AG


Universität Wien


Medizinische Universität Wien


Wirtschaftsuniversität Wien


Valida Pensionskasse AG


Österreich Werbung


IKEA


Landestheater Linz


Siemens Austria


elevate staffing


Österreichische Bundesbahnen Österreichische Postbus AG


Stadt Amstetten


ALPLA


ABB E-mobility AG


DPE Deutsche Private Equity


ABB


Wolf Theiss Rechtsanwälte GmbH & Co KG

With a particularly strong litigation practice and a strong presence across the CEE region, Wolf Theiss Rechtsanwälte GmbH & Co KG is recommended for high-quality advice on restructurings, employment contracts, and pensions and benefits-related matters. The team is praised by clients for comprising ‘experienced lawyers with a business-oriented approach’, with practice head Ralf Peschek‘s varied caseload including executive agreements, workers’ participation rights, and manager liability. Matthias Unterrieder is experienced at handling multinational projects such as cross-border staff assignments, while the ‘highly qualified’ Isabel Firneis regularly represents clients in proceedings with authorities and is well-versed in restructuring matters.

Responsables de la pratique:

Ralf Peschek


Autres avocats clés:

Matthias Unterrieder; Isabel Firneis


Les références

‘Very strong expertise in employment law, especially cross-border in the DACH region.’

‘Ralf Peschek has always been available to us and accompanies our mandates with a high degree of professionalism. We very much appreciate his interpersonal skills, his calm manner, and how he brings the parties back together and reaches an agreement. On some difficult issues, his network has been extremely helpful.’

‘Isabel Firneis is a very active and solution-oriented person, who offers a deep knowledge of labour law and comes up with pragmatic solutions.’

Principaux clients

Lifebrain Covid Labor


Magenta


Principaux dossiers


  • Represented a company before the Austrian Supreme Court in a precedent-setting dispute around the reduction of an all-inclusive compensation during parental part-time work.
  • Advised a global company on the redesign of its corporate pension scheme, covering company pension law, tax, social security, and accounting aspects.
  • Advised a company on the legal frameworks and reporting obligations related to workcation set-up in Austria and countries in the CEE region.

Baker McKenzie Rechtsanwälte LLP & Co KG

Baker McKenzie Rechtsanwälte LLP & Co KG‘s practice strengths include employment law aspects of corporate transactions and restructurings, labor law compliance and internal investigations, as well as litigation and advice on dispute settlements. The team maintains close relationships with clients in the financial services, pharma, manufacturing, and construction sectors and is headed by Philipp Maier, who is recommended by clients for his ‘extensive knowledge of Austrian labor law’. Simone Liebmann-Slatin‘s expertise encompasses cross-border transactions and negotiations with unions.

Responsables de la pratique:

Philipp Maier


Autres avocats clés:

Simone Liebmann-Slatin; Victoria Fink; Andrea Haiden


Les références

‘Smart and outstanding people and high quality of legal advice.’

‘Philipp Maier and his team offer excellent legal advice. Always well prepared he provides smart legal solutions for every client.’

‘Philipp Maier is always very precise and meticulous in giving advice. His extensive knowledge of Austrian labor law is evident. He is very quick with responses and is always available for a call if concepts need to be clarified.’

Principaux clients

Accenture


McDonald’s


Andritz Inc.


Lam Research


Sky


Sika AG


Velocity Global


Mondelez


Foot Locker


Unilever


Desigual


Michael Kors


Citrix


NXP Semiconductors


Norgine


Open Text


ICON


Biogen


Federal Ministry of Finance


Gebauer & Griller Group


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Accenture on labor law compliance, employment litigation, and employee data protection.
  • Represented McDonald’s in litigation procedures.
  • Advised Andritz on the compensation of its top executives.

Burgstaller & Preyer Rechtsanwälte GmbH

Burgstaller & Preyer Rechtsanwälte GmbH is an employment boutique with a strong pedigree in company pension models, employee protection, and collective labour law issues. Expertise in matters related to business sales, reorganisations, and outsourcing is another standout feature of the team, which is jointly led by Gerald Burgstaller and Helmut Preyer. Preyer is regularly instructed by national and international employers as well as management members to advise on matters related to employer-employee relations, while Burgstaller regulalry advises on equality and compensation matters. The practice heads are well-supported by Patricia Fischer and Dominik Stella.

Responsables de la pratique:

Helmut Preyer; Gerald Burgstaller


Autres avocats clés:

Patricia Fischer; Dominik Stella


Principaux dossiers


  • Represneted a former CEO of an Austrian bank in a court case before the Commercial Court in Vienna regarding an alleged cause of damages in excess of €30m.
  • Advised an international company engaged in paper production on the purchase of an Austrian company, especially with regard to aspects of company pension entitlements of employees.
  • Advised the Central Bank of the Republic of Austria on the extension of the leave of absence of a high-ranking employee.

DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH

DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s team is described by clients as ‘truly exceptional in its field’ and is noted for its capabilities across the full gamut of employment matters. Thomas Angermair leads the group and is particularly experienced in negotiations with works councils and unions as well as in advising on management agreements. Lisa Kulmer is another key contact for works council matters and further specialises in the implementation of whistleblowing systems and non-compete clauses. Manuel Mayr is recommended by clients for his ‘profound understanding of employment law and his remarkable litigation skills’.

Responsables de la pratique:

Thomas Angermair


Autres avocats clés:

Lisa Kulmer; Florina Thenmayer; Manuel Mayr


Les références

‘Fast communication, competent, always on time  and offering more than one solution for the issue.’

‘Competent, honest, available. ’

‘The team is truly exceptional in its field, boasting a unique blend of expertise, dedication, and innovative approaches that set it apart from its counterparts. Potential clients seeking unparalleled legal services would benefit greatly from the distinct strengths and key capabilities of this extraordinary team.’

Principaux clients

Salesforce


E+H Rechtsanwälte GmbH

Being described by clients as ‘one of the best choices for employment law and labor law litigation’, E+H Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s varied caseload features a particular focus on employment issues in the context of corporate transactions, such as dismissals related to restructurings. Practice head Jana Eichmeyer‘s practice includes litigation, settlement negotiations, and advice on executive employment contracts, while Natalie Hahn is particularly well-versed in cross-border labour matters. Karolin Andréewitch-Wallner is another key member, with her areas of expertise including HR matters and employee incentive programs.

Responsables de la pratique:

Jana Eichmeyer


Autres avocats clés:

Natalie Hahn; Karolin Andréewitch-Wallner


Les références

‘Highly skilled and very responsive, understand client needs and provide practical and easily understandable advice.’

‘Collaboration with internal practice teams if the case requires expert opinion in another division, excellent communication with a number of important authorities.’

‘Jana Eichmeyer: extraordinary theoretical and practical knowledge, always includes a practical perspective.’

Principaux clients

Volvo Group


Pfizer Group


Austrian Airlines AG


RHI Magnesita Group


OMV


NOVOMATIC


Austrian Railways


BDO


Stark Group


SAP SE


Best in Parking


LVMH-Group


Mutares


Steyr Motors


Wien Energie


Schur Flexibles Group


Immofinanz AG


Lexis Nexis Group


Würth Group


AT&S


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Steyr Motors and Sberbank AG on restructurings plus social plan negotiations.
  • Represented Austrian Railways and Austrian Airlines AG in various litigations.

Engelbrecht und Partner Rechtsanwälte

Engelbrecht und Partner Rechtsanwälte fields ‘highly specialised experts in labour law’ and specialises entirely on labour, employment, social security and income tax law matters, with the team’s workload including antidiscrimination, pension and collective agreement matters. Led by Helmut Engelbrecht, who is a known expert for public employment matters, and Maria Schedle, the practice is especially recommended for its strength in litigation, with all lawyers being able to offer clients experience in court proceedings. Silvia Wieder left the firm in January 2023.

Responsables de la pratique:

Helmut Engelbrecht; Maria Schedle


Les références

‘Available when necessary, immediate detailed analysis based on excellent skills, very friendly and competent.

‘They offer customer-oriented, realizable solutions and are always readily available for legal questions.’

‘The team works efficiently, their know-how is outstanding. If you reach out for legal advice you can be sure you are taken seriously and treated with utmost respect. In very urgent cases they also try to help as soon as possible and in excellent quality.’

Gerlach Rechtsanwälte

Gerlach Rechtsanwälte’s practice is praised by clients for its ‘pragmatic approach combined with a lot of experience’ and handles all aspects of labour and employment law, including employment-related advice on restructurings, pension schemes, negotiations of socials plans, and data protection matters. The team is lead by Michaela Gerlach together with Roland Gerlach, who is described as ‘one of the leading employment law lawyers in Austria’. Former co-head Markus Löscher departed in March 2023, while Brigitte Sammer joined in September 2022 from Taylor Wessing enwc Rechtsanwälte GmbH.

Responsables de la pratique:

Michaela Gerlach; Roland Gerlach


Autres avocats clés:

Brigitte Sammer; Christopher Badalec


Les références

‘Roland Gerlach is one of the leading employment law lawyers in Austria. He is dedicated to identifying, designing, and successfully implementing legal solutions to disputes, with the best commercial interest of the client as an objective. His experience is unmatched and he works great with the team around him.’

‘Roland Gerlach: top labour law lawyer in Austria.’

‘Roland Gerlach is an excellent lawyer and in addition an excellent manager.’

Principaux clients

EUROWINGS Works Council


Constantia Flexibles Group


Vereinigung der Fußballer


RTR


MEDIAPRINT Works Council


ORF Works Council


UNIQA Works Council


RohrMax Rohrreinigungs- und Kanalsanierungsgesellschaft


KLINGER Fluid Control GmbH


Opel & Beyschlag


Otto Bock Healthcare Products


Principaux dossiers


  • Represented the newly founded association of professional football players, Vereinigung der Fußballer, in proceedings concerning the application for a license to negotiate collective bargaining agreements.
  • Advised Constantia Flexibles Group on its labour and employment matters, including representation in various legal proceedings.
  • Represented the Works Council of the Austrian Broadcast in proceedings before the Supreme Court as well as the Constitutional Court concerning unconstitutional provisions of the new Austrian Broadcasting Act.

Schima Mayer Starlinger Rechtsanwälte GmbH

Schima Mayer Starlinger Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s team stands under the joint leadership of Georg Schima and Birgit Vogt-Majarek and is recommended by clients for its ‘attention to detail and pragmatic approach.’  Vogt-Majarek is well-regarded for acting in individual employment matters such as termination of employment cases, though his practice also extends to collective employment law. Vogt-Majarek, meanwhile, is a key contact for advice on employment contracts and restructuring matters as well as for advice on data protection issues. Philipp Gamauf excels at handling matters at intersection of employment and corporate law.

Responsables de la pratique:

Georg Schima; Birgit Vogt-Majarek


Autres avocats clés:

Philipp Gamauf; Stefan Burischek


Les références

‘Very professional, knowledgeable, and outcome-oriented. Provide clear guidance on legal cases.’

‘The team has an extensive experience in labour law but also in commercial law, which was very helpful for us. Their communication skills mean a lot when the matter is complex.’

‘We are directly working with Philipp Gamauf and his team. He is an energetic lawyer, having a large perspective that helps us in labor and commercial matters. He strictly follows all the details of the case, never stops fighting for his client, and guides in the best way possible. ’

Principaux clients

Canon Austria GmbH


Canon Central Eastern Europe GmbH


Celebi Ground Services Austria GmbH


DXC Technology Austria GmbH


EntServ Enterprise Services Austria GmbH


Ecovium GmbH


EUROTAX Österreich GmbH


EDUSCHO Austria GmbH


Ibis Acam Bildungs GmbH


Johnson & Johnson Group Austria


Kleen-Tex Industries GmbH


Moet Hennessy Österreich GmbH


Moncler Deutschland GmbH


Stone Island Austria GmbH


ÖBB Business Competence Center GmbH


OMV AG


Raiffeisenlandesbank Niederösterreich-Wien AG


Raiffeisen-Holding NÖ-Wien


Remote


Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Österreich


RHI Magnesita GmbH


RIMC Hotels & Resorts Group


Schülke & Mayr Gesellschaft m.b.H.


Temp Champ GmbH


Western Union International Bank GmbH


Wienerberger AG


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Raiffeisenlandesbank NÖ-Wien on all aspects of employment law, including advice on internal restructuring of departments and review of salary regulations.
     
  • Advised Remote on the international personnel leasing of 100+ Austrian employees to companies operating worldwide and the required legal steps regarding notifications, documentation, and employment conditions.
  • Advised Moet Hennessy Österreich GmbH on all aspects of employment law.

Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte)

With connections to the firm’s large network in the CEE region, Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte)‘s labour and employment team under the leadership of Stefan Kühteubl covers the full spectrum of contentious and non-contentious employment law, with focus areas such as collective agreements, cross-border posting of employees, and advice on the Whistleblower Protection Act. Teresa Waidmann is highlighted by clients for ‘combining great analytical skills with a high level of expertise’ and is particularly well-versed in separation negotiations with senior employees.

Responsables de la pratique:

Stefan Kühteubl


Autres avocats clés:

Karin Pusch; Teresa Waidmann


Les références

‘Close contact with the partner, high expertise, very practical approach.’

‘Teresa Waidmann is combining great analytical skills with a high level of expertise and exceptional work ethic – she gives you the feeling of having an understanding sparring partner by your side who is not counting every minute. ’

‘I was impressed by how well the interaction with the various employment law teams across CEE worked.’

Principaux clients

AUDI


Allgemeines Krankenhaus Wien


Allianz Elementar Versicherung AG


Bilfinger Maschinenbau GmbH & Co KG


BUWOG AG


Trodat Group


Greiner


Wiener Stadtwerke GmbH


Leoni AG


JTI


ManpowerGroup


OMV AG


Sanus X GmbH


Thales Group


TU Wien


UniCredit Bank Austria AG


Waterdrop Microdrink GmbH


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised OMV on the establishment of a geothermal energy joint venture with Wien Energie, the largest regional energy provider in Austria, including employment law aspects.
  • Advised AUDI AG on the cross-border activities of AUDI employees in the context of a major press event.
  • Advised INNIO comprehensively on the successful establishment of a European Works Council.

Taylor Wessing enwc Rechtsanwälte GmbH

Taylor Wessing enwc Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s recent workload includes advice on delegating duties and liabilities, cross-border staff deployment, and drafting management contracts. The team is led by Wolfgang Kapek, who impresses clients with his ‘outstanding legal knowledge’ and offers particular knowledge on whistleblowing topics. Walter Pöschl is described as an ‘incredible expert when it comes to labour law issues’ and also covers a range of litigation matters. Brigitte Sammer left the firm in September 2022.

Responsables de la pratique:

Wolfgang Kapek


Autres avocats clés:

Walter Pöschl


Les références

‘We are very satisfied with their services.’

‘We mainly work with Walter Pöschl who is an incredible expert when it comes to labour law issues (both collective and individual labor law).’

‘High grade of legal knowledge, very professional and working within the set deadlines.’

Principaux clients

Schillinger Vegan Holding GmbH


People 2.0


Paysafe-Card


DKSH Switzerland Ltd.


Genesys International B.V.


Ring International Holding


Keyence International


CoachHub GmbH


Tti Techtronic Industries Emea Limited


Gebrüder Riha Group


Riese & Müller Gmbh


Functional Software


Mitel Networks (International) Limited


Landgard Group


Tttech Computertechnik AG


Shockwave Medical, Inc.


Concept Cool Vertriebsgesellschaft M.B.H


Binca Group


Nestlé Österreich Gmbh


NESPRESSO ÖSTERREICH GMBH & Co OHG


Vorwerk Austria Gmbh & Co KG


T-Systems Austria Gesmbh


IES Abroad Institute For The International Education Of Students


W.L. Gore & Associates Gesellschaft M.B.H.


Virtual Vehicle Research Gmbh


Atradius Kreditversicherung


Lafarge Holcim


Hays


Tyrolit Schleifmittelwerke Swarovski K.G.


Otto Bock Healthcare Products GmbH


DSV Air & Sea GmbH


Theater der Jugend


Nationale Anti-Doping Agentur Austria GmbH


numa group GmbH


SystemsAccountants


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised T-systems on a cross-border intra-company group deployment of staff.
  • Advised Numa on its start-up in Austria, addressing legal issues of Austrian employment law, ensuring compliance, and streamlining HR processes.
  • Advised a global company in the transport business on customized and coordinated mobile working solutions, harmonising employment regulations across several CEE countries.

DLA Piper Weiss-Tessbach Rechtsanwälte GmbH

Praised by clients for ‘providing superb services’, DLA Piper Weiss-Tessbach Rechtsanwälte GmbH’s team is led by Stephan Nitzl, whose broad practice includes employment-related advice on transactions and corporate restructuring initiatives in addition to representation of clients in litigation proceedings. The group has been further strengthened with the arrival of Jennifer Held from KWR Karasek Wietrzyk in February 2023. Held’s employment practice includes corresponding data protection and contract topics.

Responsables de la pratique:

Stephan Nitzl


Autres avocats clés:

Jennifer Held


Les références

‘Stephan Nitzl provides practical on-the-spot advice, enabling quick decision making.’

‘Stephan Nitzl and his team are providing superb services when it comes to employment and labour relations advice. Stephan’s knowledge encompasses local legal requirements, sectoral know-how, and an understanding of our needs as an international business in developing, maintaining, and operating processes that fit with our network-level systems and interests while fostering local law compliance.’

‘Stephan Nitzl’s profound knowledge of local law is paired with an ability to communicate complex legal issues effectively and quickly and with a view to practical impact and ease of implementation. We particularly value his ability and willingness to deliver top-quality work product under time pressure.’

Principaux clients

Metro Cash & Carry Österreich GmbH


Hager Electro Gesellschaft mbH


Cube Infrastructure Partner


KML Linear Motion Technology GmbH


Advanced Medical Solutions Group Plc


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Cube Infrastructure Partners on employment law matters in connection with the acquisition of 70% of shares in Müller Logistics-Group, which is based in Austria.
  • Advised METRO Cash & Carry GmbH on day-to-day questions in connection with labour law as well as in litigation cases.
  • Advised Hager Electro Gesellschaft mbH on day-to-day questions in connection with labour law.

Eversheds Sutherland Rechtsanwälte GmbH

Eversheds Sutherland Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s multifaceted offering encompasses particular strengths in HR matters as well as in the employment and pension due diligence aspects of M&A and transfer of undertaking procedures. The team offers a focus on the life sciences, retail, IT, and real estate sectors and is headed by Silva Palzer, who is well-versed in EU and international employment law. Sandra Singhofer joined the firm in December 2022 from PwC Legal Austria-oehner & partner.

Responsables de la pratique:

Silvia Palzer


Autres avocats clés:

Sandra Singhofer; Karin Köller; Manuel Boka


Les références

‘The team works in a very efficient way. This is very important for our business and they always provide different solutions to our problems.’

‘Silva Palzer and her team always provide punctual and fast advice that gives us a good idea of how to move forward.’

‘The team has in-depth knowledge of this legal area and the relevant case law. Questions and problems are answered promptly and competently’

Principaux clients

Legero United


Microsoft Österreich GmbH


Rodenstock Österreich GmbH


Nokia Austria GmbH


Experian GmbH


Horizon Therapeutics GmbH


RGIS Austria GmbH


WestRock GmbH


Sebia GmbH


Orgentec Austria GmbH


MOL Austria Handels GmbH


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised a private equity fund on the employment and pension due diligence aspects of the acquisition of a KKR portfolio company.
  • Advised Experian Austria GmbH on its merger with Credify Informationsdienstleistungen GmbH and the related employment law issues.
  • Advised an international pharma group on Austrian employment law and assisted with the drafting of all employment law documentation.

Fellner Wratzfeld & Partners

Led by the ‘very experienced’ Kurt Wratzfeld, Fellner Wratzfeld & Partners maintains close relationships with a diverse roster of clients in the banking, tobacco, gambling, and public sectors. The team handles the preparation of employment contracts and work agreements, and advice on personnel reductions makes up a further core element of its employment offering. Florian Dauser, who specialises in labour law and dispute resolution, is a further key member of the team.

Responsables de la pratique:

Kurt Wratzfeld


Autres avocats clés:

Monika Sturm; Florian Dauser


Les références

‘No matter which question we have, they have a bright portfolio of expertise and help us as a team in a very quick manner.’

‘They are highly committed and aware that we always need a very quick answer, we do not even need to emphasize this point.’

‘Kurt Wratzfeld is very experienced, super professional, very reliabla and very nice to work with.’

Principaux clients

UniCredit Leasing (Austria) GmbH


Imperial Tobacco Austria Marketing Service GmbH


City of Vienna


Wiener Linien GmbH & Co KG


Kommunalkredit Austria AG


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised the target Kommunalkredit Austria AG on the acquisition of an 80% majority stake in Kommunalkredit by the Swedish private equity investor Altor, including employment-related topics.

GRAF ISOLA

With a specialism in labour and pensions law, GRAF ISOLA is described by clients as a ‘state-of-the-art law firm with dedicated experts’. Exemplifying the team’s strength in representing clients before all relevant courts and authorities, practice head Jakob Widner also leads the firm’s dispute resolution practice group. Axel Guttmann primarily advises clients on employment issues arising in the course of corporate restructurings.

Responsables de la pratique:

Jakob Widner


Autres avocats clés:

Axel Guttmann


Les références

‘The team can be considered a modern, state-of-the-art law firm with dedicated experts, customer-oriented administration, and hands-on support in case of special requests.’

‘High levels of expertise of counselors and a distinct focus on client support differentiates this law firm from its competitors.’

‘Very responsive and we always receive quality advice.’

Principaux clients

JTC


EMTensor


Danucem


MCC


Modul University Vienna


Schauspielhaus


Sunotec


WKÖ


JobRad Österreich GmbH


Herbst Kinsky Rechtsanwalte GmbH

Led by Christoph Ludvik, Herbst Kinsky Rechtsanwalte GmbH‘s ‘outstanding and highly recommendable’ team offers experience in an array of employment matters, including issues related to the implementation of whistleblowing systems and labour law topics in the context of M&A transactions. A particularly active disputes practice is another feature of the team, which regularly represents its clients in court proceedings and in collective labour law disputes with work councils and trade unions.

Responsables de la pratique:

Christoph Ludvik


Les références

‘Economic approach in legal consulting.’

‘engaged and on-time delivery.’

‘Outstanding and highly recommendable team.’

Principaux clients

Vivatis Holding


cargo-partner gmbh


CAE Inc.


GIS Gebühren Info Service GmbH


GG Casting Solutions


Isovolta AG


Österreichischer Genossenschaftsverband


accilium GmbH


Constantia Services GmbH


AIG Europe S.A.


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised ISOVOLTA AG on restructuring issues, crisis management, and social plan negotiations.
  • Advised VIVATIS on restructuring issues, the digitalization of work processes, employee data protection, working time queries and collective bargaining agreements.

Kinner Korenjak LAW

Jointly steered by Wolfgang Kinner and Ingrid Korenjak, Kinner Korenjak LAW’s team advises a growing roster of clients in sectors such banking and finance, healthcare, hotel, and food on a diverse range of employment and labour issues. Korenjak is described by clients as a ‘hands-on and practice-oriented lawyer with high commercial awareness’ and handles matters at the intersection of employment and data protection law, while Kinner’s recent workload includes the representation of clients in various HR-related court proceedings.

Responsables de la pratique:

Wolfgang Kinner; Ingrid Korenjak


Les références

‘Always available, incomparable in strategy and negotiation skills.’

‘We have worked with several law firms in the past, but rarely have we experienced such a tremendous level of professionalism.’

‘We are fortunate to be advised by a competent and great lawyer such as Wolfgang Kinner.’

KPMG Law - Buchberger Ettmayer Rechtsanwälte GmbH

KPMG Law - Buchberger Ettmayer Rechtsanwälte GmbH operates across the full range of employment law, with focus areas including the negotiation of social plans, transactions-related employment work, and contentious matters such as litigation regardingthe  termination of employment contracts. Elisabeth Wasinger leads the group with an ‘exceptional knowledge of the law’ and regularly supports clients with the implementation of group-wide policies, in addition to providing clients with knowledge of mass dismissals and the labour law aspects of M&A transactions.

Responsables de la pratique:

Elisabeth Wasinger


Les références

‘They truly work as a team, extremely detail-oriented and courteous. ’

‘Elisabeth Wasinger managed the team extremely well and we always received the best advice. ’

‘Outstanding quality of service by real experts.’

Principaux clients

adesso orange AG


ALSTOM Transport Austria GmbH


Blackshark a.i. GmbH


dm drogerie markt GmbH


Implenia Baugesellschaft mbH


Kaleido AI GmbH


Management Factory Corporate Advisory GmbH


Nokia Solutions and Networks Österreich GmbH


PEPCO Austria GmbH


RE/MAX Europe Regional Services


PMSCS Regional Franchise Services GmbH


Salzburg AG


unik GmbH


Verein für Konsumenteninformation


Consapption GmbH


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised dm drogeriemarkt on a cross-border project regarding remote work, including coordination of several countries and a close collaboration with KPMG’s tax and social security teams.
  • Advised VKI on the design and implementation of various works council agreements dealing with the requirements of digitalisation and flexible working conditions.
  • Advised Salzburg AG on the employment law aspects of the intended spin-off of its transportation operations with around 700 involved employees into a new subsidiary.

KWR Karasek Wietrzyk Rechtsanwälte GmbH

Providing ‘an outstanding service on HR topics’, Anna Mertinz leads KWR Karasek Wietrzyk Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s team, with her multifaceted practice encompassing advice on cross-border staff deployments, employment contracts, assistance with company acquisitions, employee data protection, and compliance. Jennifer Held left the firm in February 2023, while Martin Lanner, whose workload includes employee participation schemes, joined in September 2023 from Schindler Attorneys.

Responsables de la pratique:

Anna Mertinz


Autres avocats clés:

Martin Lanner


Les références

‘Anna Mertinz provides an outstanding service on HR topics.’

‘Prompt and precise answers to all my questions, very high knowledge on all legal issues, and great network.’

‘Anna Mertinz has very high standards concerning knowledge, and a high work ethic. She is for sure working hard.’

Principaux clients

apetito Österreich GmbH


Norgine Pharma GmbH


Salzburg Global


Ing. Armin Weinrath GmbH


Next MatterGmbH


Fleischeslust


Burtscher Durig


KIR


Lifecare Essentials


Merz Aesthetics GmbH


Milford Tee Austria


Agrana


Maispa


LOS 22


Ryanair


Crewlink


Familie & Beruf Management


Diversity Think Tank Consulting GmbH


myneva Austria GmbH


Mister Spex


Nemo Healthcare


Hornbach


Coca-Cola


Lyreco


Towers Watson


Handler Holding


Rohde & Schwarz


Assa Abloy


Diamond Aircraft


Lindner Group KG


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Ryanair Group on a range of contentious and non-contentious employment matters.
  • Advised Milford on managing directors’ employment contracts, workplace privacy, and new hires.
  • Advised Agrana on the long-term cooperation and employment of a lawyer as head of the legal department and managing director in affiliated companies.

PHH Rechtsanwält:innen GmbH

PHH Rechtsanwält:innen GmbH‘s team is noted for its capabilities in cross-border personnel leasing, work permits, and employment-related tax matters. Described by clients as an ‘outstanding lawyer with excellent communication skills’, Nicolaus Mels-Colloredo leads the practice and is well-regarded for his litigation expertise and advice on M&A transactions as well as his ability to assist with executive employment and termination agreements.

Responsables de la pratique:

Nicolaus Mels-Colloredo


Les références

‘They are broad in their competencies and can handle more than one specific topic. If you need a specialist on a concrete issue, it is very likely that they have the right law expert on board. ’

‘Nicolaus Mels-Colloredo is an outstanding lawyer with excellent communication skills. He has a deep understanding of his domain and acts fair with his clients.’

‘High level of commitment, highly trained, available at short notice, great facilities, absolutely modern office.’

Principaux clients

adesso Austria GmbH


Austrify Medical GmbH


B.Pro


BLANCO Austria Küchentechnik GmbH


CORUM ASSET MANAGEMENT


INTERZERO Circular Solutions Europe GmbH


FREE NOW mytaxi Austria GmbH


Grünewald Fruchtsaft GmbH


Makita Werkzeug Ges.m.b.H.


Meridiam Investment GmbH


Next March


PharmaMar SA


SALESIANER MIETTEX GmbH


Sean Morrell and MORR LLC


Selecta Betriebsverpflegungsgesellschaft mbH


The Paragon Fund II GmbH & Co. KG


TFF Consulting GmbH


United Nations


WKO – Wirtschaftskammer Wien


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised French infrastructure fund Meridiam on cross-border employment matters in a joint venture with Magenta Telekom.
  • Advised WKO, the professional group of commercial service providers of the Vienna Chamber of Commerce, on a broad range of employment matters.
  • Advised United Nations employees in Vienna and their family members on residence/work permits and citizenship.

Prchal Anwaltsbüro

For clients, Prchal Anwaltsbüro‘s ‘labour law specialisation is reflected in its high-quality work’, and practice head Robert Prchal is praised as an ‘excellent attorney with a high level of practical experience’. Prachl is particularly well-versed in cross-border personnel leasing and employment-related data protection matters. The team also offers notable strengths in advising on corporate reorganisations, contract work, and contentious and non-contentious matters related to working times. Clients stem from a wide variety of sectors, including hospitality, trade, pharma, and IT.

Responsables de la pratique:

Robert Prchal


Les références

‘Personalised customer service and accessibility.’

‘Customer service and response time, flexibility in prioritising demands and arising workloads ’

‘The firm’s labour law specialisation is reflected in its high-quality work.’

Principaux clients

AstraZeneca


Parfümerie Douglas


alfatraining Bildungszentrum GmbH


TourRadar


EQOS Energie


Cornerstone on Demand


Medallia


Tetra Pak


Red Hat


Morgengold Frühstücksdienste


THQ Nordic


Loisium Hotels


Polestar


Mjam GmbH


TOMRA


LeasePlan


Pegasos Finance


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised ADEG Wolfsberg e.Gen. on all employment-related aspects of the sale and partial closure of its retail outlets.
  • Advised TourRadar on the successful closing of their COVID-19 short-term work projects.
  • Advised THQ Nordic on various terminations in the course of a recent restructuring process, including cross-border aspects with employees working remotely from abroad.

Zeiler Floyd Zadkovich

Zeiler Floyd Zadkovich‘s areas of expertise include pension and benefits, executive contracts, and employee data protection. Practice head Hans Georg Laimer maintains close relationships with clients in an array of sectors, including manufacturing, health care, and gaming, while Andreas Tinhofer has a track record of acting before courts and in proceedings with authorities. Lukas Wieser specialises in litigation regarding employment termination, discrimination and harassment claims.

Responsables de la pratique:

Hans Georg Laimer


Autres avocats clés:

Andreas Tinhofer, Lukas Wieser


Les références

‘The collaboration is very efficient and professional. We get accurate responses in due time as well as professional advice on all kinds of employment law matters.’

‘Pragmatic, practical support for a complicated employee relations issue.’

‘Lukas Wieser was attentive, responsive and clear in the advice provided.’

Barnert Egermann Illigasch Rechtsanwälte GmbH

With well-established experience in contentiosu matters, Barnert Egermann Illigasch Rechtsanwälte GmbH advises on a diverse range of employment law issues, including matters related to company benefits, termination of employment, employee mobility strategies and transfer of employees. Complimented by clients for his ‘profound litigation experience’, Clemens Egermann heads up the group and regularly represents both employers and directors before courts and in proceedings with administrative authorities.

Responsables de la pratique:

Clemens Egermann


Les références

‘Highest expertise, highest standard of service, very fast responding, most reliable.’

‘Reaction time and quality of information are great.’

‘Highly service-oriented and efficient concerning response time. As a client, you know immediately that your request is being taken care of and what to expect next.’

Principaux clients

EVN AG


Gebrüder Weiss Gesellschaft m.b.H.


Bauarbeiter Urlaubs- und Abfertigungskasse


Municipality of Neunkirchen


Municipality of Lilienfeld


Afry Austria GmbH


Wilhelm Hübner


Microporous GmbH


Deloitte

Deloitte is well regarded for handling employment aspects of cross-border restructurings, including immigration issues, works council agreements, and a wide array of individual HR questions. The team is led by Stefan Zischka, who maintains particularly close relationships with clients in the food, pharma, and real estate sectors and combines expertise in employment, social and immigration law to contribute to the firm’s full-service approach.

Responsables de la pratique:

Stefan Zischka


Autres avocats clés:

Friederike Hollmann


Les références

‘Outstanding and highly reputable employment practice embedded in a seamless one-stop-shop.’

‘Stefan Zischka regularly goes the extra mile and has best-in-class communication skills to reach agreements in court procedures.’

‘Dedicated support from a highly professional team which always has our company’s interest in the back of their minds. ’

Principaux clients

Armacell International S.A


BRF GmbH


CCE Holding GmbH


Deloitte Österreich


Denzel Group


Deutsche Telekom


T-Mobile Austria


e&a Film GmbH


Generali Real Estate SpA


Institute of Science and Technology Austria


Krüger Group


LGT Bank AG


M. Müller Privatstiftung


Motorola Solutions Austria GmbH


Paulaner Brauerei Gruppe GmbH & Co KGaA


Sanus X GmbH


Signify Austria GmbH


Stiftung Fürst Liechtenstein


Telefonica Tech


Transalpine Ölleitung in Österreich Gesellschaft m.b.H.


UNITED Marketing Technologies GmbH & Co.KG


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised BRF GmbH and its affiliated group companies on all areas of individual and collective employment law, in particular in the drafting of contracts and the implementation of internal guidelines and policies.
  • Advised Motorola Solutions Austria GmbH on various areas of individual and collective employment law and represented the company before the labor and social courts.
  • Advised Transalpine Ölleitung in Österreich Gesellschaft m.b.H. on the drafting of contracts and represented the company before the labor and social courts.

KÖRBER-RISAK Rechtsanwalts GmbH

KÖRBER-RISAK Rechtsanwalts GmbH‘s multi-faceted areas of expertise include matters related to sexual harassment in the workplace, collective bargaining law, and whistleblowing audits, and the team is capable representing of clients in court proceedings in addition to providing strategic advice. The team is jointly steered by ‘brilliant litigator’ Katharina Körber-Risak and Raphael Elia Schanda, with the latter specialising in matters at the intersection of employment and competition law. Former co-head Sarah Meixner left the firm in October 2022.

Responsables de la pratique:

Katharina Körber-Risak; Raphael Elia Schanda


Les références

‘Excellent collaboration at any time.’

‘Highly qualified partners and associates counsel about the best solution for the client with exceptional attention to detail, while also looking at the big picture.’

‘Apart from exceptional expertise, in particular in employment law and litigation, the team is extremely committed and provides valuable advice and support beyond the mere legal guidance. ’

Principaux clients

Österreichischer Rundfunk


ÄrzteEinkaufsService-Equip4Ordi GmbH


Ärztekammer für Wien


Verband der Privatkrankenanstalten Österreich


Vialto Partners Austria


Pimcore GmbH


DAIN Studios GmbH


Gurkerl.at GmbH


Austrian Airlines AG


VAMED Group


Principaux dossiers


  • Represented ORF in a case involving an employee’s allegations of abuse of power, sexual harassment, bullying, and gender discrimination during a promotion process.
  • Advised the Medical Chamber of Vienna on an investigation into potential white-collar crime conflicts and represented multiple entities in court cases related to wrongful termination, compensation claims against former executives, and ongoing collaboration with criminal lawyers for investigations.
  • Advisedthe Association of Private Hospitals in Austria on renegotiations of the collective bargaining agreement, resolving difficulties with the trade union through the Federal Conciliation Office.

LeitnerLaw Rechtsanwälte

Based in Linz, the team at LeitnerLaw Rechtsanwälte maintains a diverse workload that encompasses advice on labour leasing, employee participation schemes, business transfers, and working time violations. Jointly led by Johannes Edthaler and Christina Hödlmayr-Traxler, who is praised by clients for her ‘hands-on mentality‘, the ‘very competent’ team is sought out by domestic and international clients from various industries, including food, manufacturing, trade and engineering.

Responsables de la pratique:

Johannes Edthaler; Christina Hödlmayr-Traxler


Les références

‘Fast, concise and reliable.’

‘Quick response, no delays, no hiding behind technical terms.’

‘What impressed me most is the firm’s willingness and ability to truly understand their client’s business. My contact at Leitner Law really worked as a partner with us and the particular service we received felt very personal and tailor-made. ’

Principaux clients

TGW Logistics Group GmbH


Lenze Austria Holding GmbH


SPAR Österreichische Warenhandels-AG


Peek & Cloppenburg KG


HARIBO Austria GmbH & Co KG


TANNPAPIER GmbH


HUGO BOSS AG


Leitl Spannton GmbH


Linde Hydrogen FuelTech GmbH


Ing. A. Fritz Voith GesmbH & CoKG


Prinzhorn Holding GmbH


Heinemann Austria GmbH


European Forum Alpbach


A1 Telekom Austria AG


SCM GROUP Branch Austria


AEROCOMPACT Group Holding AG


Wienerberger AG


Gmundner Molkerei GmbH


Held & Francke Baugesellschaft mbH


HABAU GROUP


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Gmundner Molkerei GmbH on a business merger.
  • Advised TANNPAPIER GmbH on a business merger and ongoing labour law issues.

PwC Legal Austria-oehner & partner

PwC Legal Austria-oehner & partner‘s employment law team cooperates with other departments to offer a multidisciplinary approach, which includes advice on tax and M&A topics. Ursula Roberts’ recent activities include advice on the implementation of the EU whistleblower directive, flextime agreements, and compliance audits. She leads the group alongside Eva Krichmayr, who focuses on restructurings and social plan negotiations by combining expertise in employment, immigration and social law.

Responsables de la pratique:

Ursula Roberts; Eva Krichmayr


Les références

‘The law firm had an excellent team available at short notice. During the collaboration, in addition to labour law issues, tax law issues also emerged. We are very grateful that this law firm has access to its own tax experts, who are also always available promptly and easily. This broad range of experts gives us the feeling that we are in good hands.’

‘Ursula Roberts’ clarity and knowledge gave us the feeling that she could and would solve our problems.’

‘PwC Legal Austria provided an excellent service.’

Principaux clients

Honda Austria Branch of Honda Motor Europe Ltd


JCL Logistics Austria GmbH


Planmeca Oy


Plandent GmbH


IVC Evidensia


The Navigator Company


W.A.C.M. Privatstiftung


JS North Asia Investments Limited


Adina Apartment Hotels


hypo-A GmbH


TTI Electronics Austria GmbH


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Honda Austria Branch of Honda Motor Europe Ltd on the preparation of a new flexitime agreement and the adaptation of several internal policies.
  • Advised Planmeca Oy on the acquisition of 100% of the shares in the Austrian dpMedTech GmbH via its Austrian subsidiary Plandent GmbH and advised on employment agreements for the sellers as managing directors of both dpMedTech GmbH and Plandent GmbH.
  • Advised hypo-A GmbH on a complex employment law issue and on payroll issues with cross-border implications together with PwC Payroll Consulting colleagues.

Saxinger, Chalupsky & Partners Rechtsanwälte GmbH (SCWP Schindhelm)

Led by Roland Heinrich and Bettina Poglies-Schneiderbauer from Wels and Linz respectively, Saxinger, Chalupsky & Partners Rechtsanwälte GmbH (SCWP Schindhelm) has a strong presence in the Upper Austria region and operates across the whole spectrum of employment matters, with particular strengths in EU employment law issues. Heinrich is noted for his knowledge of collective agreements, social security matters, and cross-border transfers of employees, while Poglies-Schneiderbauer’s focus areas include temporary employment matters.

Responsables de la pratique:

Roland Heinrich; Bettina Poglies-Schneiderbauer


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised an Austrian recruitment agency on employment issues arising from part-time work undertaken during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Represented an international automotive company in wide-ranging court proceedings involving dismissals and a case being heard by a specialist employment law court.
  • Advised a construction company on its review of existing internal employment practices covering issues such as work hours and employment contracts.