Matthew Grunert rejoined global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright’s employee benefits and executive compensation practice, enhancing the firm’s ability to support clients on all aspects of complex transactions. Based in Houston, Grunert previously practiced with the firm as an associate from 2006 – 2011.
“Matt brings deep experience in employee benefits and executive compensation that is critical to providing a full-service offering for clients’ sophisticated, multidisciplinary transactions,” Jeff Cody, global and U.S. managing partner at Norton Rose Fulbright, said. “His return to the firm strengthens our bench in an area that is integral to our transactional practice.”
Joining from Bracewell, Grunert advises public and private companies, private equity sponsors and boards of directors on the benefits and executive compensation aspects of corporate transactions. His practice focuses on counseling clients in connection with mergers and acquisitions, financings, restructurings and other strategic transactions, as well as ongoing compensation, equity and retirement plan issues.
“Further growth in Houston remains a strategic priority for the firm, and bringing in accomplished laterals like Matt reflects our commitment to this market,” Carter Dugan, Houston office partner-in-charge at Norton Rose Fulbright, said. “Matt returns as a well-known and highly regarded lawyer with strong relationships across our transactional teams and throughout the greater Houston business community.”
Grunert’s experience includes the design, implementation and administration of deferred compensation plans and equity compensation arrangements, including stock options, restricted and phantom stock, Section 409A compliance, Section 162(m) issues and partnership profits interests.
“Having previously practiced at the firm, I’m familiar with the strength of its integrated platform, collaborative culture and skilled practitioners that support clients’ increasingly complex transactional needs,” Grunert said. “It’s exciting to return to my roots during a period of meaningful growth, particularly across the business practices.”
Grunert has been recognized for his work in employee benefits and executive compensation by Chambers USA, Legal 500 US and Lawdragon’s “500 Leading Corporate Employment Lawyers” guide. He earned his master of laws degree from New York University School of Law, his law degree from Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law and his bachelor’s degree from Trinity University. Grunert is licensed to practice in Texas.
