Ausra Deluard

Ausra Deluard, a partner at Dentons US LLP, is also co-chair of the firm’s antitrust practice. With more than a decade of experience, she has led the defense in several high-profile antitrust merger investigations, distinguishing herself through her work on multi-billion dollar transactions.

Deluard’s career in antitrust law has been marked by significant accomplishments and high-stakes cases. She has provided pivotal antitrust advice in various complex matters, including the sale of International Fruit Genetics, where she navigated the intricacies of a transaction valued at around $1 billion.

Her role as the lead antitrust counsel was entailed defending against a Second Request from the Department of Justice. She also successfully managed investigations by the California Attorney General and the European Commission, resulting in the buyer divesting its current US operations to achieve a successful outcome.

Another notable case Deluard worked on was representing the Lactalis Group in its acquisition of The Kraft Heinz Company’s natural cheese business, valued at $3 billion. She took charge of the antitrust merger investigation, which included a Second Request and resolving the case through structural remedies with two upfront buyers. Her comprehensive approach covered strategy formation, substantive advocacy, expert management, and negotiation of remedies for two product markets. The DOJ had raised concerns about reduced competition in two separate cheese product lines, but Deluard’s efforts led to Lactalis acquiring several iconic cheese brands and production facilities.

Deluard’s approach to antitrust law emphasizes the importance of nuanced understanding and avoiding over-reliance on brightline rules and presumptive conclusions. She has actively engaged in cases that challenge traditional views, including those involving predatory pricing and labor union actions.

“To me, antitrust is fundamentally a question of how do we enforce fair play to maximize social welfare. It is important not to lose sight of the balance that the policy does not become so stifling that it impairs incentives to innovate and hinders the flow of rewards for creativity and investment. Hence, fact-specific inquiries are vital to ensure we strike the right balance,” said Deluard.

In addition to her professional work, she co-chairs Dentons’ wellness committee and participates in the firm’s WomenLEAD committee, focusing on supporting and inspiring other women in their careers.