Effective 1 May 2024, Xavier Guzman will become the new Country Managing Partner of DLA Piper's Luxembourg office, taking over from Catherine Pogorzelski. He aims to maintain the firm's focus on growth, teamwork, innovation, and integrating new technologies. With a diverse international background, Xavier's leadership style is expected to adeptly handle the evolving challenges and opportunities.
Background and experience
- Early career and education: Xavier Guzman, a native of Mexico with a French mother, studied at the Sorbonne in Paris and began his legal career in Hong Kong before settling in Luxembourg 16 years ago.
- Previous Positions: Before joining DLA Piper in 2015, Xavier gained experience at Thomas Mayer & Associés, Clifford Chance LLP, Loyens & Loeff, and Lombard International Assurance across Europe and Asia.
Transition of leadership
- Previous CMP: Catherine Pogorzelski, founder and long-time leader at DLA Piper in Luxembourg, transitions from her role as Country Managing Partner to focus on new tasks as a senior partner. As such, she will maintain an active role in DLA Piper Luxembourg’s leadership. As a Fund lawyer, she will continue to support fund managers and investors with their growth projects from Luxembourg.
- Succession: Xavier Guzman, previously responsible for Luxembourg’s Finance department, takes over as the Country Managing Partner, effective 1 May 2024
- Approach: Xavier, who has worked closely with Catherine and joined DLA Piper shortly after its launch in Luxembourg, emphasizes continuity in leadership and vision. He sees the transition as a continuation of the fir
