Michal Smrček

Email:
michal.smrcek@havelpartners.cz

Practice Areas:

• Compliance and investigations
• Whistleblowing
• Litigation and arbitration

Industry Sectors:

• Insurance
• Banking and other financial services

Michal Smrček specialises in insurance regulation, pension companies, insurance distribution, representation of clients before courts, investigations and compliance.

In the area of ​​insurance, Michal provides comprehensive legal advice to insurance companies, pension companies, insurance intermediaries and leasing companies, especially on the general regulatory aspects of cross-border service provision, licensing procedures, the ČNB’s supervisory activities issues, implementation of key changes in company processes, product distribution, including preparation of complete contractual documentation, internal regulations, setting remuneration schemes, and setting rules for the management and quality control of distribution activities. He also advises clients in addressing complex damage, including representation before the courts and financial arbitrator.

In the area of investigation Michal focuses on the detection, prevention and discovery of internal fraud, including a focus on external fraud with an emphasis on maximizing the value saved.

In the area of compliance Michal advises clients primarily on compliance, including assessing the impact of any changes on the processes of insurance companies and insurance intermediaries, as well as identifying and assessing the risk of non-compliance. He also deals with setting rules for the prevention of corruption, bribery, conflict of interest, and the issue of whistleblowing.

Prior to joining HAVEL & PARTNERS, Michal worked for 2 years in a law firm, where he provided services to leading financial institutions. Prior to that, he worked for more than 8 years at Česká pojišťovna, Allianz pojišťovna and Allianz penzijní společnost, lastly as a senior manager where he led the legal and investigation departments. Michal was responsible for the overall legal operation of companies, and comprehensive advice to the company’s board of directors, both on common issues and on major international projects. He also served as the main contact person for the ČNB and was responsible for coordinating and implementing corrective measures in several inspections by the ČNB. Michal was the chairman of the Corporate Governance Commission and a member of a number of other commissions. He also worked in the legislative section of the Czech Insurance Association (ČAP).

Membership in professional associations

Czech Bar Association 

Languages
Czech, English

Education

University of West Bohemia in Pilsen, Faculty of Law, Pilsen (2009), Mgr.