Baker Donelson cross-border corporate and transactional attorney Michael H. Johnson has been recognized by the AlabamaGermany Partnership (AGP) as the 2022 recipient of the Rainer Bauer Award. AGP Chairman Kirk Atkinson presented the award to Mr. Johnson at the AGP's 24th Annual Dinner held in Mobile, Alabama, at the Battle House Hotel.
Past recipients of the Rainer Bauer Award include Governor Jim Folsom, Jr. (2019); Albert von Pelser, Plant Manager, REHAU Automotive (2020); and Greg Canfield, Secretary of Commerce for the State of Alabama (2021).
Established in honor and recognition of German businessman and entrepreneur Rainer Bauer, a longtime friend of Alabama and constant supporter of the Alabama-Germany connection, the award is given annually to an individual who has contributed significantly to the advancement of the German-Alabama relationship in general and the mission of the AlabamaGermany Partnership in particular.
AlabamaGermany Partnership Executive Director Tine Hoffmeister said, "As an organization, we experience Michael's outstanding accomplishments, dedicated service, and loyal friendship on a daily basis. It was such a thrill and honor to recognize him for his hard work in his role as the German Honorary Consul for Alabama and as a world citizen. We are very thankful for his many contributions to AGP and its mission."
A shareholder in Baker Donelson's Birmingham office, Mr. Johnson counsels domestic and international public and private entities on their cross-border corporate and transactional matters across numerous industries. With extensive experience in trade, investment and M&A projects throughout the world, he advises on cross-border transactions, foreign direct investment, international trade and market entry, and commercial and corporate law. He works with clients in advanced manufacturing industries, with a specific focus on automotive, aerospace, heavy manufacturing, and technology.
Mr. Johnson has served as Honorary Consul of Germany in Alabama since 2011. He serves on AlabamaGermany Partnership's Board of Directors and is a member of the Economic Development Association of Alabama, the German American Chamber of Commerce, and the Birmingham Rotary Club.
AlabamaGermany Partnership (AGP) is a statewide, non-profit organization dedicated to the development of the educational, business, cultural, and social relationships among individuals and organizations with ties to both Alabama and Germany. AGP is an extremely active organization, and many of Alabama's leading German and American companies are participants in AGP. The organization facilitates meetings between German company leaders, educational groups, and young professionals; and offers networking opportunities, German dinners, cultural workshops, and business seminars.