Bird & Bird Bolsters Team With Two Strategic Partner Hires

Bird & Bird Bolsters Team with Two Strategic Partner Hires

International law firm Bird & Bird has announced the appointment of two new partners in its Frankfurt office, effective 1 January 2026. Clemens Maschke joins as a Corporate and Venture Capital (VC) specialist, while Heiko Heppner strengthens the firm’s international arbitration and cross-border litigation capabilities.

Clemens Maschke – Corporate and Venture Capital

Maschke brings over 20 years of experience advising clients in the technology, media, and automotive sectors, with a strong focus on emerging markets. His practice spans M&A transactions, joint venture structuring, corporate restructuring, and global compliance due diligence. Maschke also provides support on corporate law measures worldwide, including post-merger integration processes. He joins Bird & Bird alongside Counsel Lieor Koblenz.

Maschke said, “I am delighted to be part of such an innovative and forward-looking law firm. Bird & Bird has an excellent reputation in the technology sector, and its sector-specific approach and international positioning are a perfect fit for my practice. I can't wait to build on the obvious strengths of the existing team and contribute to the firm's continued success by offering innovative and client-focused solutions.”

Heiko Heppner – International Arbitration and Dispute Resolution

Heppner is an expert in international arbitration and cross-border litigation across sectors such as energy, finance, healthcare, automotive, defense, and engineering. Admitted in Germany, England, and New York, Heppner frequently advises on disputes involving European, North American, African, and Middle Eastern parties. He joins Bird & Bird alongside Senior Counsel Prof. Dr. Friedrich Toepel and Counsel Sebastian Gratz.

Heppner said, “Bird & Bird’s focus on all legal matters related to technology, digitalisation, and regulation, combined with its strong international presence and One-Firm-Spirit, provides an excellent platform to further develop my practice. I look forward to contributing my transatlantic experience and sector expertise at Bird & Bird, and I see great potential for our joint growth.”

Strategic Growth in Germany

Dr. Uwe Lüken, head of Bird & Bird’s Germany office, commented, “Frankfurt’s significance as a hub for corporate and disputes work makes Clemens and Heiko timely and impactful additions to the team. Clemens’ tech sector expertise and his experience in frontier markets, including Africa and the Middle East, aligns seamlessly with the firm’s strategic vision. Heiko’s addition substantially enhances our international arbitration capabilities and strengthens our visibility in the German disputes landscape. We’re delighted to have them on board.”

The appointments reflect Bird & Bird’s commitment to ambitious growth and its strategic five-year plan, enhancing both the Corporate and Dispute Resolution Groups in Germany.

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