CV
Robert analyses situations perceptively and he has an eye for detail. He looks not just at the stand-points that the parties have expressed but also at their underlying interests. In part thanks to his experience as a mediator, Robert knows that unearthing the motives, goals and undisclosed inter-ests of the opposing party can be the key to success in a client’s case. When giving advice and taking decisions on the strategy for a case, tailored solutions and litigation, Robert always considers how the various parties might respond. This avoids any unpleasant surprises. His clients value the way in which Robert is able to relieve them of their concerns regarding both the substance and the procedural aspects.
Executive and supervisory boards call upon Robert as a sparring partner who can give them strate-gic advice on complex issues. Robert is skilled in thinking three steps ahead and operating on multi-ple fronts simultaneously. This lets him put his clients in the perfect strategic position, an approach that has often led to success. For example, in 2018 Robert achieved a new record for what is termed ‘reasonable compensation’.
His bilingual upbringing led Robert to set up a German Desk at Ekelmans. He now leads the German Desk team, which focuses on assisting and giving legal advice to German-speaking clients (and their lawyers) who do business in the Netherlands.
Background
Robert graduated from the Brabant Catholic University in 1986. He joined Ekelmans as a lawyer in 1987 and became a partner in 1994. In the period 2007 to 2012, Robert regularly acted as a mediator in employment-law disputes.
Robert gives seminars in Germany and Austria on topics related to Dutch employment law. These seminars are — naturally — conducted in German.
News & insights
‘Very professional, reliable and cooperative.’
‘The team of Ekelmans is very experienced and professional. Our cooperation with several specialized lawyers of their team has always been at a high quality level. It is a pleasure to work with them. Ekelmans is a knowledge partner in several domains of our association of insurers.’
‘The kindness of the people, the knowledge, their principles, their fast way of working.’
‘Consistent quality and thorough approach to litigation, combined with an honourable style.’
‘Ekelmans team is a highly competitive firm with no match regarding corporate/insurance work. The team understands the commercial and practical aspects of the insurance industry like no other.’
‘Frank Schaaf has massive knowledge of the local and international industry, and his capacity for focusing in on the really important details makes him a valuable asset to his clients. Assisted by the magnificent associate Fleur van Kersberg, the work she delivers is pristine.’
‘Jan Ekelmans is very good in court: he is very articulate and outspoken, so he can present the case in a very good manner.’
‘Jan Ekelmans is an experienced practitioner, with notable experience advising healthcare insurers. He also assists with reinsurance matters, as well as with disputes relating to D&O liability, business interruptions and fraud.’
‘Jan is very knowledgeable and able to think along with us about the results we need.’
‘Jan Ekelmans is a brilliant lawyer. He is witty and very clever.’
‘Ekelmans always responds quickly and communicates clearly.’
‘Ekelmans are always willing to help and always willing to go the extra mile.’
‘Jan Ekelmans is an excellent litigator, with a good sense of humour.’
‘Ekelmans and Astrid van Noort are heads on, proactive and highly professional.’
‘Fleur Van Kersbergen is the “go to lawyer” for professional liability matters as well as a perfect option for cross border issues or international clients doing business in The Netherlands.’
‘Frank Schaaf is an absolute leader with massive knowledge in both the local and foreign insurance markets. A very strong and reliable lawyer.’
‘Daan Spoormans – Young, innovative and high knowledge’.
‘(..) the office has clout and extensive specialist knowledge’