Chris is mentioned by the most important references concerning legal publications:

"Chris Engels specialises in dismissal law and is an expert in matters concerning European labour law. One respondent says, "He has a sound legal knowledge and is extremely responsive. He is very commercial and pragmatic – a leader in the field.".
Furthermore, he has been nominated leading Thought Leader in Europe for Labour & Employment Law in 2017. Who’s Who Legal: Labour & Employment 2017 has Chris listed amongst the 26 Belgian experts in Labour, Employment & Benefits Law. In 2018 he is mentioned as follows: “The “prompt, practical and business-focused” Chris Engels is recognised as one of the foremost figures in employment law. He draws high praise for his work in dismissal law and labour matters across Europe, with sources highlighting his “invaluable willingness to offer a view on risks and a real opinion on what to do”.” In 2019, the guide mentions "A Global Elite Thought Leader in the field, Chris Engels is "unmistakably one of the best". Respondents to the Who's Who Legal research were effusive in their praise of his work on individual and collective employee dismissals." In the “Who’s Who Legal 2021” he is mentioned as follows: “Chris Engels is “truly brilliant on Belgian and international employment law” according to market commentators, who regard him as a “very insightful and excellent” lawyer.” In the 2022 edition of the guide, Who’s Who Legal mentions Chris as follows: “Chris Engels is lauded for his top-tier employment practice which spans restructurings, as well as negotiations pertaining to individual and collective dismissal".”
whoswholegal.com

Regarded as one of the leading employment law specialists in Belgium, Chris Engels has notable experience advising employers on collective dismissals and the transfer of employees to offices in other jurisdictions. He also represents clients in the negotiation of collective bargaining agreements and voluntary separation plans. One client enthuses that Chris Engels is "in my view, one of the best lawyers I know," and particularly highlights that "his technical knowledge is enormous." (2022)

Described as "outstanding", Chris Engels advises clients on restructuring and works council negotiations, with one interviewee declaring: "Engels has an important background on European work councils." According to a source, "he is the best-reputed lawyer in the Belgian market." (2021)

"Chris Engels is described by sources as a "great lawyer". His practice covers outsourcing, collective dismissals and transfers of undertakings. In addition to his domestic knowledge, Engels is also considered an expert in European labour law." (2018)

“Described as "top in Belgium," Chris Engels is praised by sources who note his "practical mind" and say there is "absolutely no doubt about his technical expertise." He handles individual and collective dismissals and outsourcing, receiving recognition for his knowledge of international law." (2017)
www.chambersandpartners.com

"Claeys & Engels‘ team has an excellent reputation for its ‘in-depth and solid knowledge of employment law‘. Restructuring and pensions matters are core areas of strength for the ‘solution-minded‘ team, which also advises clients on immigration issues. Chris Engels and the ‘empathic‘ Olivier Wouters jointly lead the group, which includes Sophie Maes."
www.legal500.com

Chris specialises in labour and employment law, more specifically dismissal law (both individual and collective). He is also a specialist in transfer of undertakings, outsourcing and applicable law issues in an international context. In the field of European law, Chris pays particular attention to issues related to the European Works Council.

Chris has acted as advisor to the European Union on matters such as the European Works Council and evolution of labour law. He has also advised the International Labour Organisation.

Chris graduated from the University of Leuven (K.U.Leuven), School of Law, where he also obtained his doctorate of laws. He also has a masters degree in law from the University of California, Los Angeles, USA (UCLA). Chris currently is a Professor at the Law School of the K.U.Leuven. He teaches "Arbeidrecht en Onderneming" and "European Labour Law". Chris publishes widely in the area of labour law and also participates in many seminars on the subject, on national and international level.