David has a broad dispute resolution practice with a focus on commercial, finance and insolvency litigation, including proceedings in relation to directors’ liability and annual accounts proceedings. He is regularly involved in cross-border restructurings, such as the litigation concerning Sportcity, Imtech, Dümmen Orange, Steinhoff, Hudson’s Bay en Royal IHC.

Furthermore, he is a member of the Insolvency committee of the International Bar Association. He regularly writes and lectures on a range of topics and is the co-author of a leading commentary on articles concerning the actio pauliana.

  • Representing investment firm Indofin, in relation to the IHC Group's restructuring in 2020.
  • Advised the ad hoc group of creditors to the Consolis group in the successful implementation of its comprehensive recapitalization.
  • Advised an ad hoc group of secured lenders to Tupperware Brands Corporation who successfully completed the acquisition of certain key assets of the Tupperware Group, including global rights to the Tupperware brand name and related intellectual property as well as operations in core geographic markets.
  • LL.M. Dutch Law (cum laude) (Radboud University Nijmegen)
  • Admitted to the Bar in the Netherlands in 2009

Expertises

Litigation
Business disputes can have a major impact on your organisation's reputation, continuity and financial position. Conflicts are becoming increasingly common due to growing regulation and social pressure. Shareholder disputes, contractual conflicts, directors' liability and collective actions invariably call for a well thought-out strategy and a thorough understanding of the sector.
Restructuring & Insolvency
Periods of financial distress demand fast, informed decisions. Whether facing operational setbacks, liquidity issues or broader market pressures, companies need clear legal guidance to protect value and manage risk.
Governance
Governance and supervision within large corporations and (semi-)public institutions require careful consideration. Supervisory board members often find themselves in a complex position: they must remain sufficiently involved in the company’s management while also maintaining their independent role. Striking the right balance is essential, especially when the pressure is high and the stakes are significant.
ESG & Sustainability
Behind the daily headlines on sustainability and environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues hide complex challenges such as permitting, subsidies, funding and reporting obligations. These matters affect the expectations and demands of all corporate stakeholders.
Litigation
Business disputes can have a major impact on your organisation's reputation, continuity and financial position. Conflicts are becoming increasingly common due to growing regulation and social pressure. Shareholder disputes, contractual conflicts, directors' liability and collective actions invariably call for a well thought-out strategy and a thorough understanding of the sector.
Restructuring & Insolvency
Periods of financial distress demand fast, informed decisions. Whether facing operational setbacks, liquidity issues or broader market pressures, companies need clear legal guidance to protect value and manage risk.
Governance
Governance and supervision within large corporations and (semi-)public institutions require careful consideration. Supervisory board members often find themselves in a complex position: they must remain sufficiently involved in the company’s management while also maintaining their independent role. Striking the right balance is essential, especially when the pressure is high and the stakes are significant.
ESG & Sustainability
Behind the daily headlines on sustainability and environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues hide complex challenges such as permitting, subsidies, funding and reporting obligations. These matters affect the expectations and demands of all corporate stakeholders.

Up and Coming

Chambers Global & Europe

Litigation (2025 Edition)

"David Heems has a unique combination of technical skills, extensive legal knowledge and commercial awareness. He is approachable, remains calm under stress and is fun to work with."

Chambers Global & Europe

Litigation (2025 Edition)

"David Heems is a great communicator with a high level of awareness. Our level of trust in him is high."

Chambers Global & Europe

Litigation (2025 Edition)

Up and Coming

Chambers Europe

Restructuring/Insolvency (2025 Edition)

"We have complete confidence that any case is in excellent hands with David Heems. His dedication to his clients makes him an excellent choice."

Chambers Europe

Restructuring/Insolvency (2025 Edition)

"David Heems' expertise is truly impressive. His strategic thinking and deep understanding of international law always stand out."

Chambers Europe

Restructuring/Insolvency (2025 Edition)

Recommended

Legal 500

Dispute Resolution: Commercial Litigation (2025 Edition)

"A more than excellent level of industry knowledge and experience. Strategy, communication, process management and personal attention stand out from David Heems and Nadir Koudsi in particular."

Legal 500

Dispute Resolution: Commercial Litigation (2025 Edition)

Next Generation Partner

Legal 500

Restructuring and Insolvency (2025 Edition)
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Upcoming
event

IBA Toronto Congres

IBA Toronto

2 November 2025 - 7 November 2025
Toronto

Publications

31 October 2024
31 October 2024
Aansprakelijkheidsrisico’s bij onbehoorlijke taakvervulling RvC. F. Peters, Reputatiemanagement voor commissarissen en toezichthouders. Boom 2024.
29 October 2024
29 October 2024
Aansprakelijkheidsrisico’s bij onbehoorlijke taakvervulling RvC. Reputatiemanagement voor commissarissen en toezichthouders. Boom.
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