VBB is pleased to announce the promotion, with effect from 1 February 2026, of Hannelore Matthys to Partner and Gert-Jan Fraeyman to Counsel, recognising their outstanding contributions to the firm and their respective practice areas.

Hannelore Matthys – Partner (Corporate/M&A)
Since joining VBB, Hannelore has played a pivotal role in advising strategic buyers and corporate clients on complex cross-border and domestic M&A transactions.

She also has extensive experience advising private equity investors and portfolio companies through all stages of the investment lifecycle.

Hannelore is known for her ability to handle fast-moving, high-stakes matters while combining technical excellence with a pragmatic, solution-oriented approach.

Commenting on her new role, Hannelore said: “I look forward to continuing to support our clients in achieving their strategic goals and contributing to our M&A team’s growth and excellence. A sincere thank you to the many inspiring clients, colleagues and mentors for their trust and support along the way.”

Gert-Jan Fraeyman – Counsel (Digital, Data & Cyber Law)
Gert-Jan started his VBB career in 2016 and is a specialist in data, digital and cyber law. He also advises Belgian and international clients across a wide range of commercial law matters, including commercial contracts, IP and e-commerce, and represents them before the Belgian courts.

As Counsel, he will continue to work with the wider team in developing and strengthening the firm’s Data, Digital and Cyber practice, delivering pragmatic, ‘client-first’ advice in complex matters.

Gert-Jan said: “I am grateful for this opportunity and excited to continue building VBB’s Data, Digital and Cyber practice and to support our clients in an increasingly digital world.” .

VBB Managing Partner Andreas Reindl added: “Hannelore and Gert-Jan are outstanding lawyers, held in high regard by clients and colleagues alike for both their professional and personal qualities. We at VBB are committed to bringing on internal talent and these promotions are not only richly deserved but will also contribute to the ongoing success of the firm.”

We congratulate Hannelore and Gert-Jan on their promotions and look forward to their continued success and leadership within the firm.