April 2025 – Kinstellar is delighted to announce that Hartwig Kienast, a highly regarded M&A lawyer, has joined our newly launched Vienna office as a Partner. His arrival further strengthens our M&A and private equity capabilities in Austria and across the wider CEE region, reaffirming our commitment to delivering top-tier legal advice in this key market.
Hartwig Kienast specialises in mergers & acquisitions, private equity, and venture capital transactions, as well as corporate reorganisations. He has been actively involved in large cross-border M&A transactions and restructurings, advising both international corporations and investors. His experience spans a wide range of sectors, including: infrastructure & energy, consumer goods, software & technology, and pharmaceuticals. Hartwig has a particularly strong focus on growth companies in the technology sector, advising both start-ups and investors on scaling businesses and structuring investments.
Prior to joining Kinstellar, Hartwig was a Partner at one of Austria’s leading law firms, where he spent over 15 years building a strong reputation in the market. His career also includes experience at a Big Four accounting firm and other leading Austrian law firms. He is consistently recognised by international legal directories as a leading practitioner. Clients describe him as: “A great professional with excellent negotiation skills. He is always calm, has a positive attitude and a smile. He is aligned with the culture and spirit of our firm. In addition, he is very good in coordinating work with different international and complex teams.”
We are delighted to welcome Hartwig to Kinstellar. His solid experience in M&A and private equity, combined with his strong client relationships and reputation, will be invaluable to our growing team in Vienna. His arrival reinforces our strategy to become a leading advisor Austria and the wider CEE region.
Kristóf Ferenczi, Kinstellar’s Firm Managing Partner
I am excited to join Kinstellar and contribute to the firm’s dynamic and ambitious growth in Austria and the wider CEE region. Kinstellar’s regional platform and strong international focus provide a fantastic opportunity to support clients in complex, high-stakes transactions. I look forward to working with the team and expanding our capabilities in Vienna.
Hartwig Kienast, new Partner, Kinstellar Vienna