Bird & Bird strengthens Stockholm IP team with new partner Wendela Hårdemark

Published March 6, 2025

International law firm Bird & Bird bolsters its international Intellectual Property (IP) practice in Sweden with the hire of patent litigator Wendela Hårdemark.

With almost 20 years of specialized experience in IP rights and commercial disputes, Hårdemark’s practice spans matters related to patents, trademarks, copyrights, designs, marketing law, and trade secrets. She has significant courtroom experience, notably in District Courts and arbitrations, with an emphasis on serving clients in the Life Sciences & Healthcare sector.

Joining from Swedish IP boutique Westerberg & Partners, Hårdemark brings extensive experience in complex, multi-jurisdictional patent disputes and representing clients in arbitrations.

Hårdemark’s arrival follows the recent appointment of partner Josh Little in London, demonstrating ambitious growth for Bird & Bird’s international IP Group, which continues to strengthen its market-leading reputation globally.

Peter Brownlow, Boris Kreye, and Massimiliano Mostardini, co-heads of the international IP Group, comment: “Wendela’s specialized skills in IP rights and patent litigation are a perfect match for our strategic goals of bolstering our already strong international IP Group and consolidating our top standing in the Swedish market. Her commitment to client-focused strategies, practical approach to complex disputes, and alignment with our truly collegiate culture make her a valuable addition to our team. We wish her a very warm welcome to the firm.”

Mårten Willamo and Martin Folke, co-heads of Bird & Bird’s Stockholm office, say: “We are delighted to welcome Wendela at an exciting time of ambitious growth and opportunity in Stockholm. Sweden is an important market for patent litigation, amplified by the presence of the regional division of the UPC, and so Wendela’s impressive track record managing high-profile patent cases makes her a great fit for our growing team.”

Hårdemark adds: “Bird & Bird’s stellar reputation in both technology and life sciences aligns perfectly with my experience and interests. In an era of rapid IP developments, the collective knowledge of an international firm is more important than ever, providing the breadth of expertise and global reach needed to navigate complex legal challenges. I’m thrilled to join Bird & Bird’s strong global network of like-minded experts, and I look forward to contributing to complex, cross-border projects at the forefront of IP while also further strengthening the firm’s IP presence in the Nordics.”