BRG Expands International Trade Practice in Europe

Global expert services and consulting firm BRG announced that Dr. Simon Schropp recently joined the firm’s Brussels office as a director, strengthening BRG’s international trade, compliance and investment practice.  

With over two decades of experience—including a decade as a managing economist at global law firm Sidley Austin LLP—Schropp brings a rare blend of advisory and litigation expertise in international economic policy, trade and investment disputes, regulatory strategy and antitrust matters. He has advised across various geographies and industries, from e-commerce and consumer goods to agriculture, aerospace and raw materials. His arrival underscores BRG’s growing presence in Europe and the breadth of its client services.  

“Simon joins BRG in Europe at a pivotal moment,” said David Sunding, vice chairman of BRG. “The global trade and investment system is undergoing whiplash. Simon’s expertise, combined with that of his colleagues globally, enables clients not only to navigate today’s complexities but anticipate tomorrow’s challenges and opportunities”. 

“International trade cuts across clients’ areas of concern and opportunity, including M&A, antitrust, foreign investment and national security,” added Konstantin Ebinger, leader of BRG’s Brussels office and co-head of the firm’s Antitrust and Competition practice. “Simon’s experience gives our clients in Europe and beyond access to one of the world’s most seasoned trade advisors”. 

Consistently recognised among Lexology’s “Most Highly Regarded Individuals” and “Global Elite Thought Leaders” in Trade & Customs Experts, Schropp is described as an “outstanding practitioner with a wealth of experience” who “knows trade economics better than anyone else” and always strives “to create a positive outcome”.  

“I am excited to join BRG’s European team,” said Schropp. “We are witnessing seismic shifts in the way goods, services, capital and ideas are exchanged globally. BRG boasts a deep bench of subject-area and industry experts uniquely positioned to guide clients through these turbulent times”.  

Schropp relocates from BRG’s Washington, D.C. office, having joined in February. His move follows the arrival of colleagues focused on complementary aspects of international trade and investment policy, strategy and compliance, including Mason Pan, who joined in May; Robert Chamberlain, who joined in December 2024; and Samantha Welch, who joined in January 2025. Managing Director Steven Klemencic also focuses on trade and is based in Washington, D.C.  

Schropp holds PhDs in economics (University of St. Gallen) and international economics (Geneva Graduate Institute) and master’s degrees in business administration (St. Gallen), international management (CEMS) and international political economy (Columbia University). His academic work appears in leading journals. He also serves as an adjunct professor at George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs, where he teaches international economics and trade policy.