International law firm DLA Piper has appointed the former European Commissioner Phil Hogan (pictured) as a “senior strategic and political advisor” in its government-affairs division.

The firm says that the appointment is part of its plan to offer its clients “integrated strategic advice, going beyond legal expertise”.

Hogan resigned as EU Trade Commissioner last year, after a controversy about his attendance at an Oireachtas Golf Society event in Clifden.

‘Holistic perspective’

In his new role, he will be based in Brussels, as part of a team led by DLA Piper partner Richard Sterneberg.

“Mr Hogan will be spearheading a growing team of leading policy, legal and sectoral experts, and offering a holistic perspective on regulatory, political and corporate risk management,” a statement from the firm said.

Hogan said that global businesses were operating in increasingly challenging environments around the world.

“Their ability to understand and adapt to international public policy and societal trends will make the difference between success and failure,” he added.