Bart Neervoort
Mediator
Short Introduction
After many years as a litigation lawyer in Rottterdam and Amsterdam, and later as an appellate judge at the Amsterdam Court of Appeal, I decided I preferred helping businesses make peace rather than war. Since 2002 I have worked full-time as a mediator, focusing on international commercial disputes — often involving parties from common law and civil law countries, with different cultures and legal traditions. English is my second native language and I am fluent in German.
About Work
Trained by CEDR in London and at the Harvard Program on Negotiation, I am familiar with both the Anglo-Saxon mediation style where lawyers play a prominent role and the continental European approach, which gives the parties themselves more voice and responsibility. This dual perspective helps me adapt flexibly to what each case and culture requires.
Being based in the Netherlands, a neutral country with a strong reputation in international law, allows me to offer parties a balanced and realistic view of their options. My style combines structure and calm with humour and humanity because mediation works best when people feel at ease. The most rewarding moment for me is when parties shake hands, close the file, and move on with confidence. Parties often describe me as a “dealmaker.” When negotiations stall, I am not afraid, at their request, to offer a mediator’s proposal to help them bridge the final gap. This pragmatic approach explains why most of my mediations end in a mutually satisfactory resolution.
Expertise
- Employment & Workplace
- Commercial & Corporate
- Construction, Property & Planning
- Banking, Finance & Insurances
- Culture, Lifestyle & Sport
- Industry, Energy & Environment
- International Trade & Competition
- Healthcare & Personal Matters
Languages
- English
- German
- Dutch
Memberships
IMI MfN CPR Dispute Resolution Provider
Platform Business Mediation