International law firm Steptoe & Johnson LLP announced today that Alexis Lautenberg, recently retired from the Swiss diplomatic corps, will join the firm’s Brussels office on 15 September as a Political and Economic Adviser. Mr. Lautenberg has more than 35 years of experience in European affairs, having just left the diplomatic service in July of 2010.

Lautenberg is widely recognized for his knowledge of European affairs. He headed the Swiss Mission to the European Union from 1993 to 1999. He also served as Swiss Ambassador to Italy from 1999 to 2004 and to the United Kingdom from 2004 to 2010.

Following an outstanding career in the Swiss diplomatic corps, Mr. Lautenberg will continue his activities at Steptoe where he will advise the firm’s clients based on his in-depth knowledge of the workings of the European Union and its Member States at a time when world economies and financial institutions are experiencing tremendous structural and regulatory upheaval.

Lautenberg said, "I am certain that my new role at Steptoe will allow me to utilize fully my experience and professional interests which have motivated me throughout my career. I look forward to undertaking specific and significant mandates and to contribute my knowledge in areas such as financial services and energy law."

Jean Russotto, Managing Partner of Steptoe’s Brussels office, said, "We are pleased to welcome Alexis and look forward to offering our clients enhanced services based on his broad experience, much of which has been acquired during multiple complex international negotiations."

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