Meet Nils H. Thommessen, new Managing Partner

Nils H. Thommessen (50) has been elected new Managing Partner (MP) in Wiersholm, starting on 14 May 2012. He takes over after Erik Thyness, who has had the role of MP since 2006. I am looking forward to embarking on the task of being Managing Partner in Wiersholm. We have a fantastic starting point as the only firm in Norway ranked at the top in both of our main areas, Disputes and Transactions. Moreover, as one of few firms in Norway we have a true equal division model in the partnership, meaning that we can always be sure that it is the lawyer with the most appropriate competence who performs the work. We have every reason to continue to succeed, but there is no doubt that the competition is becoming stronger and stronger. In the future we must ensure that our clients experience that we understand the commercial constraints in the cases we are working with. Through the “Wiersholm school” and other internal training programs we are continuously focusing on strengthening our professional competence. We must combine this with an even better commercial understanding of the fact that our services must have be highest possible value for the clients. When Thommessen takes over as MP, he has been in the firm for 20 years, of which 15 as partner. In addition to his work as a lawyer, he has managed one of the firm’s transaction departments for the last six years. Thommessen has also held a position in Wiersholm’s board of directors. Former MP Erik Thyness describes him as follows: First and foremost, Nils’ focus is that we are there for the clients, and not the other way around. In addition, he is energetic and results-oriented. This characterises him both as a lawyer and as a leader. In his role as a leader it is also useful that he is a good motivator and never holds back. In the last few months, Thommessen has been preparing for the responsibility as leader: I will continue to do client work, but I must scale down my work as a lawyer to create room for the role as MP. Leading an enterprise based on human resources with a flat structure and highly competent co-workers is a demanding responsibility. I am looking forward to working even closer with the entire Wiersholm organisation!

From left Erik Thyness and Nils Thommessen.