Philip S. Thorsen steps down as partner at Mazanti-Andersen

After 30 years at Mazanti-Andersen, Philip S. Thorsen has decided to step down as partner at the end of the year. He has chosen to pursue a career change and will, as of 1 January 2026, assume the position of CEO at the Elsass Foundation, which supports people with cerebral palsy.

Since joining Mazanti-Andersen in 1995, becoming partner in 2001 and being admitted to the Supreme Court in 2007, Philip has been a central figure in the firm.

With his exceptional talent as a litigator, he has gained recognition both in Denmark and internationally and has played a leading role in a number of high-profile cases, including the recovery of the Municipality of Farum and the major bank cases following the financial crisis. In addition, his specialisation in competition and public procurement law, combined with his extensive board experience, has made him a sought-after and trusted advisor to several businesses.

Beyond his legal practice, Philip has made a significant contribution to the profession. Over the years, he has been an active voice in legal policy matters, including serving as Chairman of the Copenhagen Bar Association and as a member of the Danish Bar and Law Society’s Council, as well as Head of the Danish Delegation to the Council of Bars and Law Societies of Europe (CCBE), where he has helped shape the framework for the legal profession both nationally and internationally. Common to Philip’s engagement — both in his work as a lawyer and in the profession — has been his unwavering commitment to protecting the fundamental rule of law for citizens and businesses alike.

Within Mazanti, Philip has had a profound impact and left a lasting mark on the firm’s development, including through his many years as a member of the board. He has helped define and carry forward what is often described as “the Mazanti spirit”: a strong sense of community characterised by dedication, high professional standards, and a genuine interest in people. His ability to combine sharp legal craftsmanship with deep personal commitment has made him both a culture bearer and a unifying figure among colleagues across generations.

“Mazanti has been a central part of my life for 30 years. I am deeply grateful for the trust and the community I have been part of — with clients, colleagues, and partners. Having had the opportunity to help shape the firm while being challenged every day by people I have greatly appreciated working with has been a privilege. That is precisely why the decision has been difficult, but I am excited to take on a new challenge where I can contribute in a different way,” says Philip S. Thorsen.

Chairman of the Board at Mazanti-Andersen, Henrik B. Sanders, highlights Philip’s great significance:

“Philip has been instrumental to Mazanti’s development over three decades. He has left his mark not only professionally but equally on a personal level. For me personally, it has been a privilege to have had such a close collaboration through almost our entire professional lives. Philip’s ability to build relationships, his professional strength, and his great commitment to the firm and our culture will be missed — but at the same time, we are delighted that he is following his heart and taking on a role of such great importance to others.”

In connection with his departure from Mazanti-Andersen, Philip has prepared a generational transition, particularly to partner Josephine Linn Jacobsen, who has worked closely with him for many years in Mazanti-Andersen’s litigation department.