16 Apr 2026
Bird & Bird strengthens its Employment team with partners Philippe Thomas and Thibault Meiers
"Bird & Bird hires partners Philippe Thomas and Thibault Meiers to reinforce its Employment practice in France; they join with senior collaborator Viviane Valilou to advise on social law matters."
Philippe Thomas brings 35 years of experience and a market reputation for excellence in social law. Known for a strategic approach, he advises clients in the financial services, life sciences and healthcare, and technology and communications sectors on complex labour law matters. His work covers strategic corporate decisions, consultation with employee representatives, internal investigations and litigation related to the departure of executives. Described as a trusted adviser and accomplished litigator, he joins Bird & Bird as a partner.
Thibault Meiers is distinguished by technical expertise and strong market recognition developed within international specialist firms. He advises on the social aspects of mergers and acquisitions, including transfers of personnel, and specialises in leading complex reorganisations and managing resulting collective disputes. He also acts as a strategic partner in negotiating collective agreements, managing relations with employee representatives and resolving sensitive crises. Thibault joins Bird & Bird as a partner.
Viviane Valilou accompanies Philippe Thomas and Thibault Meiers and joins the firm as a senior collaborator.