Employment — Austria

What the team is known for Market-leading practice providing expert advice on all aspects of public and private labour law. Has particular know-how in the area of pension law, medical labour law, and public service law for privatised companies. Active representing clients before courts and authorities as well as negotiating with works councils and trade unions. Broad client base that encompasses a range of sectors, including education, financial services, healthcare, telecommunications and charities.

Strengths Clients particularly highlight the lawyers for their "humanity," which is seen as a key attribute in employment law, and add that "it helps to know that I can talk to the lawyers on a human level."

Market commentators describe the firm as the "strongest team in Vienna" and enthuse that it is the "best and broadest employment law team."

Work highlights Represented Burgtheater in a case against the former director and vice-director concerning the executive's duty of care.

Advised Siemens on redundancy programmes and social plans.

Notable practitioners

Bernhard Hainz is highly esteemed for his work on pensions-related issues. He has an excellent reputation for assisting clients with negotiating collective agreements and social plans with trade unions. Hainz frequently represents companies in litigation cases brought by workers' councils and employees.

Christoph Wolf is renowned for his specialism in judicial labour law matters, frequently representing clients before the Austrian courts. Wolf is also highly regarded for extra-judicial employment matters, such as social plans, employment agreements and temporary agency work, as well as restructuring measures. Clients enthuse that he has "a creative mind to find solutions," while another client praises Wolf's "high quality advice" and describes him as "approachable and available."

"You always have the impression that he would do anything for his clients," is how one market commentator summarises Jens Winter. He particularly specialises in collective employment law, transfer of employees and company pension law.

What the team is known for Outstanding employment practice with one of the largest teams in Austria. Particular strength lies in employment litigation, with expertise in cases regarding pensions, benefits and social security. Also specialises in business restructurings, working time law, works council relations and collective bargaining issues. Attracts high-profile clients from a range of sectors, including the public sector, healthcare, telecommunications, IT, transportation and retail.

Strengths Praising the practice for its "excellent knowledge" in employment matters, one client goes on to endorse its superlative "flexibility and availability."

Sources also note the strength of the employment department at Kunz Schima Wallentin, noting that there is "no doubt" that it is a market-leading practice.

Work highlights Represented Energie Burgenland as plaintiff in a damages case concerning two former executive board members who were charged with corruption and embezzlement.

Acted for ÖBB on a number of employment law disputes, including dismissals, working time cases and disciplinary code matters.

Notable practitioners

Georg Schima is an experienced litigator and as one market source summarises, is "one of the key labour law representatives in the Austrian employment market." He is particularly active in employment law litigation, assisting with compliance, unfair dismissal and criminal cases.

What the team is known for Wide international reach makes Wolf Theiss one of the best-equipped teams to handle large-scale matters across multiple jurisdictions. Meets current market demand by offering restructuring services both in Austria and across the CEE/SEE region. Particular expertise advising clients from the banking sector on compliance with new remuneration guidelines. Often assists with the transfer of employees, working time issues and contentious dismissals. Also has a number of clients from the retail and technology sectors.

Strengths One impressed client remarks that "from my personal experience, I would give Wolf Theiss the highest ranking possible."

Another client affirms that the team's ability to "transfer legal knowledge into practical advice is its greatest strength."

Work highlights Advised Vorarlberger Landes- und Hypothekenbank on its remuneration policy.

Represented Wittur Austria in litigation proceedings connected to the dismissal of a works council member.

Notable practitioners

As well as having an outstanding academic reputation in employment law, Ralf Peschek is noted by his clients for being "very hands-on, pragmatic and down to earth, based on decades of experience." He frequently advises clients on restructurings as well as the employment law aspects of expanding their business. He is also well regarded for employee leasing and transfer mandates.

Matthias Unterrieder is praised by one satisfied client for his "strong knowledge of labour law and creative solutions to problems," and is further described as a "good team leader for cross-border projects." He is also well regarded for assisting with employee terminations and working hours questions.

Associate-to-watch Walter Pöschl is praised by clients for his "excellent knowledge" and his ability to "translate the legalese for us, he's very understandable." He advises clients on health and safety issues, remuneration schemes and allegations of abuse of statutory rights.

What the team is known for Prestigious boutique firm with a solid reputation for litigation. Known for representing corporate employers in court, and is especially recommended for its representation of executives and top-level management as both plaintiffs and defendants. Has a diverse clientele drawn from sectors including financial services, pharmaceutical and telecommunications.

Strengths Known in the market for being a "very good employment boutique," Burgstaller & Preyer continues to be well renowned for its specialism in this area.

Notable practitioners

According to one impressed client, Gerald Burgstaller is an "incredibly experienced lawyer" who represents executives and managers in employment law disputes, particularly concerning unfair dismissals.

Helmut Preyer is recognised as one of the names that "really stands out" in this market for his skills and experience. He is highly regarded for representing senior directors.

What the team is known for Established employment boutique specialising in all aspects of labour law and social security law. Areas of expertise include employment contracts, leasing, remuneration, working hours, equal treatment, restructuring, employment litigation and company pensions. Attracts high-profile clients from different industry sectors. Knowledgeable in both Austrian and international employment law. Represents clients in employment litigation before courts and government authorities.

Strengths One client enthuses that "the advice given is very pragmatic and down to earth; the kind of business-oriented advice that we are looking for."

The practice is also well reputed in the wider market, and market commentators remark that it is a "niche boutique firm" with "a strong employment focus."

Notable practitioners

One impressed client praises Andreas Tinhofer for his ability to "break down a complex legal case and find a simple solution," going on to remark that "he thinks in an entrepreneurial way and gives me business-relevant solutions, which is invaluable." He advises on social and employment law matters, including pension mandates and employee leasing.

What the team is known for Global firm particularly known for handling the employment aspects of restructurings across a range of sectors, including life sciences, retail, construction, technology and finance. Also advises on post-merger integrations and trade union negotiations. Acts on large-scale, cross-border projects and benefits from collaboration with the firm's strong corporate team. Active in employment litigation, representing employers in a variety of disputes. Additional expertise in bonus schemes, working hours, immigration, pension plans and collective bargaining agreements.

Strengths The team is known by sources for its strong client base and ability to "take on complex and difficult work."

Clients highlight the firm's speed in handling matters, praising the "quick answers and responsiveness."

Work highlights Represented Gibson Brands in a cross-border case against a former director, which involved a secondment structure across multiple jurisdictions.

Advised Andritz on a range of employment issues, from litigation to employee remuneration, transfer and termination.

Notable practitioners

The "impressive" Philipp Maier delivers "pragmatic solutions for the client," and is also praised for his "thoughtful advice." He advises on collective bargaining agreements, working time issues and restructuring.

Simone Liebmann-Slatin specialises in contract negotiations, benefits and compensation systems and transfer of employees. She can also be called upon for her knowledge of employment contracts and negotiations with works councils.

What the team is known for Established employment team notable for its strong client base across a range of sectors. Acts on restructuring and transactional matters, which are effectively supported by its prominent M&A team. In-depth experience advising on dismissals and pension schemes, as well as employment agreements and works council topics. Well versed in cross-border matters and high-profile litigation cases. Expertise in working time flexibility, the relocation of workforce resources, personnel lease and outsourcing.

Strengths Clients describe the team as "very co-operative and efficient" and appreciate that the lawyers "are very short and precise in their answers." Clients also report that the lawyers are "very knowledgeable" in employment law and social security law.

Another client highlights the firm's collaborative approach, saying that "they give us the impression of being really interested in our business and have developed a good understanding of our needs." The same client also "really appreciates that they proactively inform us about new developments."

Work highlights Assisted Vivienne Westwood with the adaptation of UK employment contracts for store managers in Austria.

Advised Brocade Communications on a range of employment matters as it re-entered the market, including collective bargaining agreements, minimum salary agreements and terminations.

Notable practitioners

Horst Lukanec is known for his expertise in international restructuring, complex collective employment law matters, and executive contracts and compensation. Recently, he advised MAN Truck & Bus on the drafting of new managing director employment agreements in both Austria and Germany. Clients describe him as "very responsive, efficient and knowledgeable."

Angelika Pallwein-Prettner specialises in employment litigation, working time schemes, and data protection matters. She provides ongoing employment advice on collective bargaining agreements and employee terminations to several notable clients, including Asics Austria and Starbucks. Clients report that "she is very good in explaining difficult legal topics to non-lawyers."

What the team is known for Knowledgeable in all aspects of employment law, with particular expertise in collective bargaining agreements. Attracts clients from a variety of sectors, including travel, transportation, retail, technology and financial services. Works closely with its strong M&A department on the employment aspects of transactions. Expertise extends to data protection and compliance issues, as well as pension and salary schemes, social plans and working hours arrangements.

Strengths One client cites "availability and responsiveness" as two of the team's strengths, while another highlights its "pragmatic approach."

Another client has a "very good impression" of the team and believes that it "achieves something for us as a company," adding t6hat "we received huge support from them."

Work highlights Advised U City on the employment aspects of its cross-border acquisition of a portfolio of hotels in Germany, the Czech Republic, Poland and Romania.

Represented Honeywell in negotiations for collective bargaining agreements and shop agreements.

Notable practitioners

Julian Feichtinger is best known for his work in employment litigation, restructuring and contracts. One source describes him as "very knowledgeable and extremely nice to work with." Clients are also quick to praise his dedication, describing him as "somebody who wants to understand your situation and the context," and observing that "you just have this feeling that he cares about what he delivers."

What the team is known for Solid department offering a comprehensive range of employment law services to both employers and employees. An extensive network facilitates the team's ability to handle matters throughout the CEE region. Assists with contract drafting, mass dismissals, restructuring, incentive schemes and pensions, alongside working hours and collective bargaining topics. Advises clients on new regulations against wage and social dumping.

Strengths Clients praise the team for having a "good insight and understanding" of their work culture, and describe the service as "efficient, responsive and pragmatic."

Another client highlights the firm's "quick responses and sharp and effective summary of problems and solutions."

Work highlights Represented Fujifilm Europe in a series of employment law disputes against former employees in front of the Vienna Court for Labour & Social Affairs and the Regional Court of Steyr.

Advised several group companies within the GE Healthcare Group on working time, employee compensation and plant agreements.

Notable practitioners

Known for his particularly "strong ties to the arts scene and media," Thomas Angermair offers niche expertise in the market. Angermair advises clients on drafting contracts and represents them in works council negotiations and employment litigation. He recently acted for Wiener Symphoniker on complex negotiations with the trade union regarding an amendment to their collective bargaining agreement. Interviewees describe him as "very responsive, quick and very precise."

What the team is known for Boutique practice with an exclusive focus on employment law. Strong firm for Austrian employment matters, with vast experience representing clients in court proceedings and negotiations. Acts for companies and senior management on pensions issues, contract mandates and new employment regulations.

Strengths One client is satisfied that "we always received what we needed: we were able to get detailed answers and they were good at meeting deadlines, even at short notice," and goes on to observe that "they worked well as a team."

Another client values "the reliability and fast response times" of the team.

Work highlights Advised a company from the electrical and electronic industry on the implementation of a law recently introduced to prevent wage and social dumping.

Acted for an international bank on company pension entitlements in connection with compensation offers.

Notable practitioners

Helmut Engelbrecht has expertise in all areas of labour law, assisting clients with both advisory and contentious mandates. One client states that he "has always impressed us with his expertise and speed," and another describes his "knowledge of labour law in the private and public sector" as "outstanding."

What the team is known for Esteemed domestic offering with a respected market presence and a focus on court litigation, acting on behalf of employees and work councils. Also advises on social law and data protection issues. Has a strong focus on the employment law implications of new technologies.

Strengths A "well-known name" for litigation, FREIMÜLLER / OBEREDER / PILZ maintains a solid reputation in the wider market.

Notable practitioners

Having a "strong reputation for contentious work," Alois Obereder is particularly known for his dedicated representation of employees and unions, with commentators describing him as "an excellent employee representative." He advises clients on employee leasing, contracts and employment law agreements.

What the team is known for Globally integrated practice known for its international client base and strategic cross-border work. Expertise in structural advisory matters, such as executive appointments and terminations, company pensions and employee working hours. Top-tier M&A department supports the team's transactional activities. Offers non-contentious employment advice as well as support in key litigation proceedings, including discrimination claims and works council disputes.

Strengths The team is particularly highlighted by market commentators for its work on the employment law aspects of transactions.

Work highlights Advised CA Technologies on the post-acquisition integration elements of the client's acquisition of the Automic Group.

Represented Otto Bock Healthcare in negotiations with employees during the merger with Otto Bock Vermögensverwaltung.

Notable practitioners

Head of department Karin Buzanich-Sommeregger is noted for being a "very reliable" practitioner who "does a particularly good job as a negotiator in the bigger-profile cases." She offers notable expertise in employment issues in restructuring projects, post-acquisition integrations and pensions matters.

What the team is known for Expertise in both contentious and non-contentious employment law. Advises on restructurings, collective agreements and public sector labour issues. International reach allows the practice to handle cross-border employment issues, especially regarding the posting and transfer of employees. Also supported by the firm's M&A team for transaction-related employment issues.

Strengths One client particularly praises the practice for its "global expertise" and "customer orientation," in particular the fact that the team is "quick at responding and good at getting back to us."

Another client appreciates the "good experts on their team."

Work highlights Advised Audi on the secondment of Austrian employees to China by a personnel supplier, which involved complex work supply agreements.

Assisted International Forest Products with a complex, cross-border employment law dispute in Austria that involved Turkish jurisdiction.

Notable practitioners

Stefan Kühteubl has a strong focus on international employment law and employment in the public sector, and is also experienced in employment issues related to M&A transactions. He is well regarded by clients who describe him as "very bright, experienced and practical" and value his "excellent communication skills" and ability to "explain the content to people who are not experts in law."

What the team is known for Specialised boutique employment firm assisting international companies with establishing business in Austria, as well as Austrian companies branching out into international markets. Advises clients on a range of employment issues, such as drafting contracts and restructurings. Offers strength in employment litigation and the employment aspects of social security regulations and company law. Also known for its expertise in pension-related issues.

Strengths The team is praised for its "great support, expertise in negotiating documents and deep knowledge," which helps to ensure good results for its clients.

Notable practitioners

Praised by clients as an "outstanding lawyer," Roland Gerlach is also renowned in the wider market for being an "impressive negotiator." He is particularly well reputed for acting for employees and trade unions, with sources reporting that he is "always very good when it comes to big and complicated cases against major companies." A client singles Gerlach out as a "specialist in pension schemes." He also advises on management contracts.

What the team is known for Boutique with an exclusive focus on representing employees. Extensive expertise in employment litigation, acting on both collective and individual employment law matters. Advises on a range of employment issues, including contracts, restructuring, equal treatment, personnel leasing, pensions, working time arrangements and remuneration agreements.

Strengths Sources regard the firm as one of the "best-known firms for employee representations."

Another commentator also highlights the practice's employment specialism and experience as its strongest assets.

Notable practitioners

Sieglinde Gahleitner is widely considered by sources in the wider market to be an "outstanding" practitioner, who splits her time between heading her practice and acting as a judge in the Constitutional Court. One source describes her as a "very strong litigator" who is "one of the standouts" in this market, adding that "she belongs at the top." She frequently acts on restructurings and the drafting of contracts for managers.