17. October 2025

The independent, internationally operating commercial law firm ARQIS is changing its management structure in preparation for the next phase of development. From January 1, 2026, the firm will be managed by dual leadership.

Dr. Friedrich Gebert, head of the regulatory focus group, is set to become managing partner. He will be responsible for the operational management and direction of the firm. The 40-year-old is a representative of the new generation of partners at ARQIS. Meanwhile, Dr. Shigeo Yamaguchi, founding partner and head of the Japan focus group, will be responsible for all strategic and partnership matters as Senior Partner.

‘I am very grateful to be taking over the management of such a well-positioned law firm. Together with Shigeo Yamaguchi, I will continue to run it in line with the ARQIS culture,’ said Friedrich Gebert. ‘In my new role as Senior Partner, I will build on my experience as one of the founding partners and continue to support the successful “ARQIS Way”,’ added Shigeo Yamaguchi.

Since its foundation in 2006, ARQIS has been successfully led by Dr. Andrea Panzer-Heemeier. During her time as managing partner, she strategically expanded ARQIS and consolidated its position as a leading firm in the legal market. Under her leadership, ARQIS recorded double-digit revenue growth and exceeded its ambitious growth targets once again in the past financial year.

‘I’m looking back with pride on the development of ARQIS. Together with a great team, we have made the firm what it is today: at the top of its field and, as a Big Law Boutique, unique in the market. With Shigeo Yamaguchi and Friedrich Gebert, ARQIS is excellently positioned for the future. I am confident that they will continue the firm's success story “the ARQIS Way”,’ explained Dr. Andrea Panzer-Heemeier. ‘I am looking forward to being able to focus entirely on my HR.Law team and supporting our clients with increasingly complex challenges in the future.’