As counsel, I work with the DIS Case Management Team to administer arbitration proceedings. Our role includes corresponding with the parties on procedural matters and, where the parties cannot reach agreement, briefing the relevant DIS decision-making bodies on certain issues so that they can take a decision – such as the appointment of arbitrators.
Although I am an Australian lawyer (with German roots), my interest in arbitration blossomed in Bonn over a decade ago, while I was working as a research assistant at the University of Bonn. After several years working as a lawyer at firms as well as at the ICC, I decided to return to Bonn, where it all began, to take on my new role as DIS Counsel.
I enjoy the opportunity to work on many different cases, each with its own legal and procedural peculiarities. The friendly working environment, flexible hours and the chance to work in a villa are all massive pluses.
I am acutely aware of the trust parties place in the DIS when they refer a dispute to our institution. Having previously represented parties as a lawyer, I am motivated to administer cases in a pragmatic and efficient manner, seeking to keep costs as low as possible for the parties without sacrificing quality.
Reliable, efficient and committed.
Although I grew up in Australia, I did not learn to surf until I was in my late 20s – and even then, I had to go to Biarritz to learn (kind of).
Michael Neumeier