Sharing brands, this enhanced relationship will see DACB and BLD collaborate further to provide a seamless European proposition for their clients.  The firms will be able to contract as one and will cooperate to train and develop their insurance specialists, share business intelligence and know-how, develop value-added services – as well as process and operational efficiencies – and ensure uniform high standards of service and cost-effectiveness for clients across a market-leading European platform.   

In addition, the agreement will see the firms exchange partners who will take on strategic roles within the other party’s business.  DACB partner Patrick Hill will join BLD’s International Management Board and BLD’s Managing Partner, Bastian Finkel, will join DACB’s European Board and, along with the other members of the Board, rotate on to DACB’s International Executive.  BLD will also join DACB’s international talent programme, which supports up-and-coming international talent in building client and colleague networks.    

“Europe is an important market for us, and our European Board is focused on the region as a growth area for our business,” said Gustavo Blanco, DAC Beachcroft’s Head of International Business.  “The partner exchange we have established is a key part of deepening our relationship with BLD and expanding our European footprint further.  By establishing roles within the strategic bodies in our respective businesses, we are encouraging greater transparency and collaboration and showing a commitment to understanding each other’s businesses.”     

DACB and BLD have a long-standing relationship and are both founding members of Legalign Global, the alliance of best-in-region law firms working as one for multinational insurers, brokers and businesses in addressing cross-border risks and claims. 

Helen Faulkner, Head of Insurance at DAC Beachcroft, said, “We recognise that insurers and their policyholders are increasingly seeking out global support to manage their growing international risks.  We have built an excellent working relationship with BLD over the course of many years and now, by working together even more closely, we are ensuring our clients continue to receive the best possible service and expertise in Germany, the UK and beyond. 

“In BLD we have found like-minded colleagues with similar values and approaches to collaboration and client service.  We are very much looking forward to showing our clients how they will benefit from this strengthened relationship.”    

Bastian Finkel, Managing Partner of BLD, added, “This closer cooperation means that we can combine our teams of lawyers to handle cross-border cases even more seamlessly – and our clients will reap the benefits.  It will strengthen both our firms and boost our respective marketing-leading positions.  And, for BLD, it’s an additional feather in our cap as we press ahead with our sustainable growth plans, both internationally and nationally through further planned regional expansion in Germany.”