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2017 WINNERS

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CELEBR ATING EXCELLENCE IN THE LEGAL PROFESSION

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The legal industry’s elite gathered at The Star Sydney to celebrate achievements across the profession from rising stars to top dealmakers, innovative in-house teams and all of the talent in between

2017 AUSTRALASIAN LAW AWARDS BY THE NUMBERS

676 guests

A RECORD 676 of the legal industry’s best attended this year’s annual Australasian Law Awards, held at The Star Sydney on 18 May. The event, sponsored by FTI Consulting for the third consecutive year, saw a high-quality field of contenders battle it out for 34 awards. As the event MC, journalist and author Peter FitzSimons kept the crowd entertained and focused throughout the night, while unique singing act The Three Waiters wowed guests with their surprise performance during the dinner break. Luke Zanc Trio rounded off the evening’s musical entertainment with their unique twist on classic tunes. In total, 66 trophies were given out to this year’s winners, who were determined by an independent judging panel comprising managing partners and general counsel of leading companies. This year’s Australasian Law Awards also featured four new awards, recognising the important contribution of arbitrators and mediators as well as lawyers under 30 already making their mark. Yet even with so many awards, the talent in the legal profession is so great that the Australasian Law Awards can’t recognise it all. That’s why, for the first time, this year’s event included a ‘High Commended’ accolade in addition to the winner for some categories that were particularly competitive. Congratulations to all those award winners on what is, after all, the culmination of a career of hard work and innovative thinking. We’d also like to thank all of our judges, presenters, award sponsors and our event partner FTI Consulting. Read on to find out who took home the trophies this year.

210

companies represented

240 finalists

tables

awards

weeks since entries opened

INSOLVENCY & RESTRUCTURING DEAL OF THE YEAR

ARRIUM GROUP INSOLVENCY

This cross-jurisdictional insolvency was one of the high-profile deals of 2016, involving a huge number of firms. Herbert Smith Freehills’ Sue Gilchrist (pictured far right) told Australasian Lawyer it was a team effort: “I think it shows how the profession can actually work co-operatively together…they all did a sterling job.” Judges comments highlighted the complexity of the deal, described as ‘almost unprecedented’ and the ‘extraordinary amount of innovative legal work’ that went into achieving the outcome.

FINALISTS • Imdex recapitalisation • McAleese restructuring and debt sale • Sale of six Keystone Group venues

www.australasianlawyer.com.au

PROPERTY, INFRASTRUCTURE & PROJECTS DEAL OF THE YEAR

MORGAN STANLEY REAL ESTATE INVESTING & INVESTA PROPERTY GROUP

One of the largest recent real estate deals globally, this transaction required specialists from a broad range of practice areas including real estate, M&A, corporate, tax, banking and employment. An Allens team jointly led by Mark Stubbings and Vijay Cugati advised Morgan Stanley, its financial advisers and the Investa team while Clayton Utz acted for CIC on the acquisition of Investa Property Trust in the first stage of the transaction. (Pictured: Guy Alexander, Allens)

FINALISTS • • • •

Canberra Light Rail PPP High Capacity Metro Trains project Port of Melbourne lease Victoria International Container Terminal project financing

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DEBT MARKET DEAL OF THE YEAR

ENERGY & RESOURCES DEAL OF THE YEAR

SMART ABS SERIES SECURITISATION

MERGER OF QUEENSLAND ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTORS TO CREATE ENERGY QUEENSLAND

“It was a very collaborative affair,” was how Allen & Overy’s Minesh Patel (pictured) summed it up after picking up the trophy. “Everyone had a clear target in mind and worked well together.” Reaping the rewards of teamwork was also echoed in judges’ comments with one saying “This [deal] demonstrates the legal aptitude that Australian law firms can exhibit, which make them market leaders of our environment.”

FINALISTS • Financing of GE Commercial acquisition • Iron Mountain syndicated Term Loan B facility • Scottish Pacific restructure

This merger, which created Australia’s largest electricity provider, was deemed ‘a clear winner’ by judges due to its scale and significance. Speaking to Australasian Lawyer at the event, MinterEllison partner Andrew Rentoul (pictured left) said “We’re very excited to have the recognition…this is something to be proud of and you can see the effort of our team writ large.” King & Wood Mallesons partner Scott Langford (pictured right) described the project's significance as “a fantastic motivator to do the very best for our clients.”

FINALISTS • • • •

AWAC joint venture renegotiation Beach Energy merger with Drillsearch Energy BHP Billiton REDD+ forest bond Establishment of the Powering Australia Renewables Fund • Glencore/Evolution Mining Ernest Henry Mine agreement

www.australasianlawyer.com.au

EQUITY MARKET DEAL OF THE YEAR

VIVA ENERGY REIT IPO

It was the scope, complexity and large number of bespoke features of this global offering – described as “very challenging” by those that worked on the project - that impressed the judging panel. Gilbert + Tobin’s David Clee (pictured left) told Australasian Lawyer on the night that it was one of the more complex transactions he has been involved in and took a long time to hit the market. “It was a great outcome for the client so it’s great that the transaction’s been recognised,” he said.

FINALISTS • • • • • •

Boral Limited capital raising Mayne Pharma equity raising Reliance Worldwide Corporation IPO STC sale of StatePlus Tegel IPO and dual listing WiseTech Global IPO

www.australasianlawyer.com.au

M&A DEAL OF THE YEAR

ACQUISITION OF ASCIANO BY BROOKFIELD AND QUBE

Allens corporate practice leader Guy Alexander (pictured fourth from right) described this deal as “one of the most complex in Australian corporate history”, saying his team was “ecstatic” to win. When asked why the deal stood out in a highly competitive field, King & Wood Mallesons Chairman Stephen Minns (pictured fourth from left) said “It was a deal which in the end delivered a lot of value to shareholders. It had a lot of elements in it and the law firms pulled it all together.”

FINALISTS • Acquisition of SAI Global by Baring Private Equity • Blackstone acquisition of Goodman portfolio • Privatisation of Ausgrid • Sale of Pacific Hydro to State Power Investment Corporation • Universal Robina acquisition of Snack Brands Australia

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INTERNATIONAL DEAL OF THE YEAR

ABI ACQUISITION OF SABMILLER

“Outstanding in terms of size and complexity”, “The sheer size and complexity of this deal makes it worthy of winning” – it was clear what made this deal stand out. Gilbert + Tobin’s Tim Gordon (pictured) highlighted the “very complex” regulatory challenges involved and described receiving the award as “a great honour, a really exciting moment.”

FINALISTS • Hanesbrands acquisition of Pacific Brands • Iron Mountain syndicated Term Loan B facility • Sale of Moly-Cop • Sale of Pacific Hydro to State Power Investment Corporation • Shanghai Pharma and Primavera acquisition of Vitaco

AUSTRALIAN DEAL OF THE YEAR

ACQUISITION OF ASCIANO BY BROOKFIELD AND QUBE

The finalists in this category comprised the winners of the market-specific deal awards: Debt Market, Energy & Resources, Equity Market, Insolvency & Restructuring, International and M&A. In a year marked by several landmark deals, ultimately it was this high-profile acquisition that took the crown. King & Wood Malleson’s Stephen Minns (pictured fifth from right) described the deal as a highlight for the firms involved: “When you get to work on a transaction like this, it’s why you become a lawyer,” he said.

FINALISTS • ABI acquisition of SABMiller • Arrium Group insolvency • Merger of Queensland electricity distributors to create Energy Queensland • Morgan Stanley Real Estate Investing and Investa Property Group • SMART ABS Series securitisation • VIVA Energy REIT IPO

www.australasianlawyer.com.au

CORPORATE CITIZEN FIRM OF THE YEAR

SALVOS LEGAL

Property partner Mark Khoo (pictured left) said the team was “humbled” to win this category for the third year in a row. Judged on a firm’s sustainability, community and corporate social responsibility initiatives, Khoo highlighted Salvos’ “shared mentality of doing greater social good” and firm-wide support as their point of difference.

FINALISTS • Arnold Bloch Leibler • Ashurst • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper • Gilbert+Tobin

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• Herbert Smith Freehills • King & Wood Mallesons (KWM) • Maddocks

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JLT EMPLOYEE HEALTH & WELLBEING AWARD

CLAYTON UTZ “This is a fantastic recognition of our firm’s commitment to our people,” said Clayton Utz head of insurance and risk Alexia Houston (pictured with JLT's Chris Sinclair) after accepting the award. Speaking to Australasian Lawyer about the firm’s people risk strategy, she said the firm has rolled out a diverse range of wellbeing initiatives targeted at managing key risks including a strong focus on mental health.

FINALISTS • Ashurst • Coleman Greig Lawyers • DibbsBarker • King & Wood Mallesons (KWM) • Leach Legal • McInnes Wilson Lawyers • Russell McVeagh

“JLT is proud to continue our long-standing sponsorship of the Employee Health & Wellbeing Award, given the significant importance people play in the success of our clients’ businesses. We are pleased to be a key people risk partner of this year’s winner.” Chris Sinclair, Divisional Manager, Benefit Solutions, JLT PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

Jardine Lloyd Thompson (JLT) is one of the world's leading providers of insurance, reinsurance and employee benefits related advice, brokerage and associated services. It is evident that the legal industry has unique people risk challenges and this is the reason why JLT developed a specific focus on the risks faced by Law Firms. Through JLT’s focus on the legal sector, JLT has gained an in-depth understanding of the needs of Law Firms and developed solutions that provide meaningful outcomes at both the company and individual partner/employee level. Chris Sinclair, Divisional Manager, Benefit Solutions P: +61 (2) 9290 6730 E: chris.sinclair@jlta.com.au

W: www.au.jlt.com

www.australasianlawyer.com.au

EMPLOYMENT LAW SPECIALIST FIRM OF THE YEAR

HARMERS WORKPLACE LAWYERS

Reigning champions in this category, 2017 once again saw the Harmers team take home the trophy, impressing judges with the broad scope and significance of work they have undertaken as well as their continued investment in social justice and human rights. “It’s a big part of the firm,” said Chairman Michael Harmer, who estimated the firm’s investment in human rights and social justice causes to be about 25 per cent of profits over the firm’s first 20 years of operation. (Pictured above: Amy Zhang, Harmers with James Kenney from Lawyers On Demand)

HIGHLY COMMENDED: AUSTRALIAN BUSINESS LAWYERS & ADVISORS

FINALISTS • Danny King Legal • HR Law • McDonald Murholme Solicitors

www.australasianlawyer.com.au

• MDC Legal • PCC Employment Lawyers • Workdynamic Australia

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AIG INSURANCE SPECIALIST FIRM OF THE YEAR

SPARKE HELMORE LAWYERS “It’s fantastic to win this award for the second year in a row,” partner Catherine Power (pictured left with AIG's Jane Pochon) told Australasian Lawyer. “Sparke Helmore has over half of its employees working in the insurance sector and it’s part of our DNA. This couldn’t be a bigger recognition for us and we’re delighted with the award.”

FINALISTS • Barry.Nilsson. • Carter Newell Lawyers • Curwoods Lawyers • Gilchrist Connell • Holman Webb • TurksLegal • Wotton + Kearney

“We are honoured to be able to once again support the legal industry at this year’s award presentation. It takes experience and organisation-wide dedication to build a customer-focused legal network that is committed to service excellence and continual improvement. In winning this award for the second year running, Sparke Helmore Lawyers deserves this recognition and we celebrate their achievements in this category.” Jane Pochon, Financial Lines Claims Manager APAC, AIG PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

American International Group, Inc. (AIG) is a leading international insurance organisation serving 90 million clients in more than 100 countries. AIG companies serve commercial, institutional, and individual customers through one of the most extensive worldwide property-casualty networks of any insurer. www.aig.com.au / www.aig.co.nz

www.australasianlawyer.com.au

IP SPECIALIST FIRM OF THE YEAR

BIRD & BIRD

IP partner Jane Owen (pictured left with Troy Gurnett) was “ecstatic” to win this award. “Bird & Bird has only been in Australia for two years and for us to win tonight in IP, which is our sweet spot, is fantastic,” she told Australasian Lawyer. Judges commended the firm on its “success in complex litigated matters” over the past year as well as its commitment to pro bono work.

FINALISTS • AJ Park • Baldwins Intellectual Property • Banki Haddock Fiora • Davies Collison Cave

www.australasianlawyer.com.au

• Griffith Hack • Phillips Ormonde Fitzpatrick • Wrays

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FTI CONSULTING BOUTIQUE FIRM OF THE YEAR

NEXUS LAW GROUP 2016 was a year of major growth for Nexus, with the firm more than doubling in size. The growth story together with the firm’s continuing innovation and disruption in the legal market, impressed the judges, securing the win. Partner Alan Prasad (pictured left) spoke of some of the highlights of the past year as the firm has grown in headcount and also expanded its online platform OpenLaw. “It’s an ecstatic win for us. It makes us very proud of who we are and where we are going,” he said.

FINALISTS • Bellanhouse Legal • Bespoke • Clarendon Lawyers • KHQ Lawyers • Massons • Polczynski Lawyers • Speirs Ryan

“Boutique law firms occupy an important place in the Australian legal market by offering specialist expertise to match the specific needs of clients, and we are delighted to support this award.” Dawna Wright, Senior Managing Director, FTI Consulting PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

FTI Consulting is an independent global business advisory firm dedicated to helping organisations manage change, mitigate risk and resolve disputes: financial, legal, operational, political & regulatory, reputational and transactional. Individually, each practice is a leader in its specific field, staffed with experts recognised for the depth of their knowledge and a track record of making an impact. Collectively, FTI Consulting offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to assist clients across the business cycle – from proactive risk management to the ability to respond rapidly to unexpected events and dynamic environments. Dawna Wright, Senior Managing Director E: dawna.wright@fticonsulting.com

P: +61 3 9604 0604

W: www.fticonsulting.com

www.australasianlawyer.com.au

RESOLUTION INSTITUTE AUSTRALIAN ARBITRATOR OF THE YEAR

ALEX BAYKITCH

“I’m absolutely excited and thrilled” was Baykitch’s reaction to being the inaugural winner of this category, introduced at this year’s event with the support of Resolution Institute. Appointed a Member of the Order of Australia earlier this year for his services to arbitration, Baykitch (pictured with Resolution Institute board member Dr Rosemary Howell) stood out in this category for his extensive experience and leadership roles in the arbitration space.

FINALISTS • • • • •

Angela Bowne SC Stephen Walsh John Wakefield Laurie James Toby Shnookal

www.australasianlawyer.com.au

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RESOLUTION INSTITUTE AUSTRALIAN MEDIATOR OF THE YEAR

STEPHEN LANCKEN In a highly experienced field, Lancken (pictured centre with Resolution Institute's Fiona Hollier far left) stood out for his broad experience and commitment to social justice. When asked what advice he would give to someone pursuing a career in mediation, he said “Try to do the right thing and try to be responsive to people’s needs. If you’re good at what you do in any profession you’ll do well.”

FINALISTS • • • •

Mieke Brandon Anne Sutherland Kelly Alan Limbury Anne Purcell

“These new awards are really important because they represent a coming of age of what used to be known as ‘alternative dispute resolution’ and now it’s dispute resolution that is central to the justice system.” Fiona Hollier, CEO, Resolution Institute PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

Resolution Institute is a vibrant community of mediators and other DR professionals. Created by the integration of LEADR and the Institute of Arbitrators and Mediators Australia, we have over 4,000 members across New Zealand and Australia. As LEADR, Resolution Institute has been training and accrediting mediators for more than 20 years. Fiona Hollier, CEO E: fiona.hollier@resolution.institute W: www.resolution.institute

www.australasianlawyer.com.au

YOUNG PRIVATE PRACTICE LAWYER OF THE YEAR (30 OR UNDER)

YOUNG IN-HOUSE LAWYER OF THE YEAR (30 OR UNDER)

THOMAS DOUGHERTY, CLAYTON UTZ

LOUISE YOUNG, GOLD COAST 2018 COMMONWEALTH GAMES

The inaugural winner of this new category, Dougherty was “humbled and very grateful” to accept the trophy. Working in the environmental and planning practice at Clayton Utz, he also plays a strong role in the firm’s social responsibility initiatives, leading the Community Connect committee for the Sydney office to organise volunteering activities, fundraising and other events with external community partners.

Young took a leap of faith to apply for her current role, which saw her negotiate two large construction contracts for the upcoming Commonwealth Games whilst undertaking her Masters. Judges were impressed with her courage and nous in taking a lead role in a highprofile, high-risk project while Young said it was a rare and “very exciting” opportunity she couldn’t miss.

HIGHLY COMMENDED: HOLLY SARA, JONES DAY & STIPE VULETA, CHAMBERLAINS LAW FIRM

FINALISTS

FINALISTS • • • • • • •

Elyse Adams, Allens Chris Travers, Allens Samantha Robson, Ashurst Cassandra Wee, Ashurst Olivia Blakiston, Gilbert+Tobin Wendy Hsu, Gilbert+Tobin Linda Kelleher, MinterEllison

www.australasianlawyer.com.au

• Steven Clayton, AIA Australia • Rosanna Biggs, eBay • Kerry O’Brien, Fair Work Ombudsman • Taha Khan, UBS AG, Australia branch • Haren Pararajasingham, United Voice • Theo Kapodistrias, University of Tasmania • Kate Pullinger, Vodafone Hutchison Australia

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LAWYERS ON DEMAND BANKING & FINANCIAL SERVICES IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR

NATIONAL AUSTRALIA BANK GROUP GOVERNANCE & LEGAL TEAM Winning this category for the second year in a row, “the most important thing about the NAB in-house team is that it’s respected externally and internally,” Chief Legal & Commercial Counsel Sharon Cook (pictured with Eric Koh) told Australasian Lawyer. 2016 saw the team involved in two major transactions – the sale of part of MLC and the Clydesdale bank de-merger.

FINALISTS • ANZ • Challenger • IFM Investors Australian Legal Team • Local Government Super Governance Team • Travelex • UBS Legal Team • Westpac

“We work closely with a number of teams in the banking & finance industry and have witnessed the developments, innovation and achievements within this sector. We were excited to be a part of something which truly recognises their overall contribution to the Australian legal profession.” Paul Cowling, Head of Client Solutions Australia, LOD – Lawyers On Demand PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

LOD - Lawyers On Demand (formerly AdventBalance) is one of the world's largest NewLaw businesses with over 600 lawyers and consultants across offices in Australia, Asia, UK and America. We provide cost effective, quality and flexible legal services in a new and more efficient way to over 500 corporate and law firm clients globally. Anita Bennett, Head of Marketing & Communications (Asia Pacific) E: anita.bennett@lodlaw.com P: +61 2 8014 5110 W: www.lodlaw.com

www.australasianlawyer.com.au

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SPARKE HELMORE INSURANCE IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR

AIA AUSTRALIA A “fantastically collaborative” relationship with the wider AIA business helped the team to victory this year, senior legal counsel Saul Lazar (pictured left with Sparke Helmore's Catherine Power) said after accepting the trophy on behalf of the team. Judges commented on the team’s “excellence innovations” and support of the business’ growth initiatives.

HIGHLY COMMENDED: CHUBB

FINALISTS • AIG • Berkley Insurance Australia • Dual • IAG • Steadfast • Suncorp – Vero • XL Catlin

“We work closely with in house legal teams at insurance and reinsurance companies every day, and understand the demands of their roles and what sets one apart from the other. We support this award because it’s great to be able to recognise teams that go above and beyond to carry out their work in a way that is collaborative, professional and of an exceptional standard.” Chris Wood, National Commercial Insurance Group Leader, Sparke Helmore Lawyers PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

Sparke Helmore Lawyers is a firm with more than 700 people working from eight offices across Australia, serving the needs of the insurance, government, financial services, technology, mining, construction and property sectors. Our expertise spans corporate and commercial to construction, workplace to insurance, IP to IPOs, mining to manufacturing, and property to procurement. James Johnson and Chris Wood E: info@sparke.com.au P: +61 2 9373 3555 W: www.sparke.com.au

www.australasianlawyer.com.au

GILBERT + TOBIN INVESTMENT BANK IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR

MACQUARIE CAPITAL LEGAL TEAM “I’m just so proud of what the team has done,” said Executive Director Kristen Jung after accepting the award for Macquarie Capital. “We’re a relatively new team and we’ve grown to work together really well.” Judges’ comments highlighted the team’s versatility and breadth of contribution to large and complex transactions: “Impressive and shows the skill and capability needed in that team to support the business.”

HIGHLY COMMENDED: UBS LEGAL TEAM

FINALISTS • • • • •

Credit Suisse Deutsche Bank Goldman Sachs Morgan Stanley UBS legal team

“Gilbert + Tobin is proud to acknowledge the innovative and complex work done by Australian in-house legal teams within investment banks. Lawyers in this space operate at the intersection of multi-jurisdictional and rapidly evolving issues and provide quality legal advice and sound commercial judgement on a daily basis. We believe it is important to recognise the hard work and specialist industry knowledge across this sector.” Tim Gordon, Partner, Gilbert + Tobin PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

Gilbert + Tobin is a leading independent corporate law firm and a key player in the Australian legal market. From our Sydney, Melbourne and Perth offices, we provide innovative, relevant and commercial legal solutions to major corporate and government clients across Australia and internationally, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. Sydney Level 37, 2 Park Street, Sydney NSW 2000 P: +61 2 9263 4000 F: +61 2 9263 4111 E: info@gtlaw.com.au

www.australasianlawyer.com.au

Melbourne Level 22, 101 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 P: +61 3 8656 3300 F: +61 3 8656 3400

Perth 1202 Hay Street, West Perth WA 6005 P: +61 8 9413 8400 F: +61 8 9413 8144 E: info@gtlaw.com.au

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RUSSELL MCVEAGH NZ IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR

FONTERRA CO-OPERATIVE GROUP LTD The Fonterra team proved unstoppable, taking out this category for the third year in a row. Australasian Lawyer asked senior corporate counsel Jorja Cleeland (pictured with Russell McVeagh's David Hoare) to reveal their secret. “Our collaborative approach”, she said. “We don’t see ourselves as a separate legal function. We’re really intrinsically involved in the business and I think that’s reflected in the work we do.”

FINALISTS • • • • • •

Air NZ ANZ Bank New Zealand Ltd Contact Energy New Zealand Superannuation Fund Vector Legal Team Vodafone New Zealand

"At Russell McVeagh we are lucky to work with the best in-house teams in New Zealand, so it is important that their hard work is recognised. The shortlist of this award is never exhaustive of the great in-house teams in the marketplace, so the firm would like to congratulate all finalists, and in particular Fonterra, for this great accolade." David Hoare, partner, Russell McVeagh PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

Russell McVeagh is widely regarded as New Zealand's premier law firm and is committed to operating on the cutting edge of legal practice. The firm employs approximately 350 staff and partners across their Auckland and Wellington offices. Russell McVeagh's lawyers are the best in their fields and are recognised internationally for their expertise. The firm represents leading corporations, financial institutions, state-owned enterprises, government entities and multi-national companies on their most complex, challenging and high-profile transactions.Russell McVeagh continues to be on, if not all, almost every major transaction in New Zealand (conflicts aside). Gary McDiarmid, Chief Executive Officer P: +64 9 367 8091 E: gary.mcdiarmid@russellmcveagh.com W: www.russellmcveagh.com

www.australasianlawyer.com.au

FTI CONSULTING AUSTRALIAN IN-HOUSE LAWYER OF THE YEAR

CLAIRE BIBBY, BROOKFIELD “It’s very overwhelming,” was Claire Bibby’s reaction to winning this award for the second consecutive year. Judges praised “standout talent” Bibby (pictured with FTI Consulting's Robert Skeffington) for her contribution to the development of the in-house counsel role and the legal profession more broadly as well as her contribution to the community.

FINALISTS • John Fitzgerald, AGL Energy • Jacob Waye-Harris, Cobham Aviation Services • Clare Mifsud, NSW Treasury Corporation • David Stewart, Telstra • Stephen Barrett-White, UGL • Lachlan Pfeiffer, Viva Energy Australia

“It was a real privilege to sponsor the Australian In-house Lawyer of the Year award. The in house lawyer is becoming far more influential within companies, and when it is done well, their advice is becoming more strategic and value creating. All the nominees play this senior role and their companies benefit from having them in this key leadership role.” Robert Skeffington, Managing Director, Strategic Communications, FTI Consulting PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

www.australasianlawyer.com.au

EVENT PARTNER

CLAYTON UTZ AUSTRALIAN IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR

IFM INVESTORS AUSTRALIAN LEGAL TEAM 2016 was a big year for the IFM Investors legal team, which advised on some of Australia’s largest M&A transactions. Judges were impressed with the team’s “equal partnership” with the business and the size of transactions on which the small team worked. Accepting the award on the night, a “thrilled” Sharon Michael, General Counsel AsiaPac (pictured centre with Clayton Utz' Nikki Robinson second from right) said: “We just try to learn from each deal that we do and constantly improve.”

FINALISTS

"Clayton Utz is proud to support the award for Australian In-House Team of the Year at the Australasian Law Awards. In-house legal teams deliver enormous value. Their nuanced understanding of the inner workings of an organisation provides unique opportunities for stability and innovation within both the business community and the legal profession." Bruce Cooper, Deputy Chief Executive Partner, Clayton Utz

• • • • •

AGL Group Legal Brookfield Properties Cobham Aviation Services Fox Sports Australia Legal Team Level Crossing Removal Authority (LXRA) • SingTel Optus Pty Ltd • Sydney Water Legal & Corporate Secretariat Team

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

Clayton Utz is a leader in legal services and a firm with a uniquely independent culture. Our success reflects our focus on our two key assets: our people and our clients. They range from iconic Australian and multinational corporations and leading government agencies to some of the most marginalised people in Australia who we assist through our Pro Bono practice. In 2015 we reached the milestone of 500,000 pro bono hours - the most of any Australian law firm or any firm outside the US. We encourage our people to show leadership in everything they do and stay true to their direction. We celebrate diversity and we're passionate about access to justice - as well as giving back to the community through our Community Connect program and the Clayton Utz Foundation. Rob Cutler, Chief Executive Partner E: rcutler@claytonutz.com P: (02) 9353 4104

W: www.claytonutz.com

www.australasianlawyer.com.au

NZ DEALMAKER OF THE YEAR

SCARLIS PRINGLE AUSTRALIAN DEALMAKER OF THE YEAR

JOHN STROWGER, CHAPMAN TRIPP

PHILIPPA STONE, HERBERT SMITH FREEHILLS Philippa Stone beat stiff competition to win this category for the second consecutive year. She worked on several of the past year’s most significant deals including the acquisition of Asciano, which was named 2017 Australian Deal of the Year. Judges’ comments read: “Philippa’s exemplary reputation, technical ability and commercial nous continues to attract stellar clients and extraordinary transactions.”

Partner at Chapman Tripp’s leading corporate and commercial practice John Strowger stood out in this category for his work on some complex and highprofile deals in New Zealand over the past year. Judges were also impressed with the positive feedback from his clients – “John’s client reviews speak for themselves.”

HIGHLY COMMENDED: SILVANA SCHENONE, MINTERELLISONRUDDWATTS

FINALISTS • David Holden, Anderson Lloyd • Garry Downs, Bell Gully • Joe Windmeyer, Russell McVeagh • James Hawes, Simpson Grierson • Michael Pollard, Simpson Grierson • Garth Sinclair, Webb Henderson

www.australasianlawyer.com.au

FINALISTS • Peter Cook, Gilbert+Tobin

• Guy Alexander, Allens • Tom Story, Allens • Stuart Byrne, Clayton Utz • Julie Levis, Clatyon Utz • Rory Moriarty, Clayton Utz

• Hiroshi Narushima, Gilbert+Tobin • Andrew Rentoul, MinterEllison

“A highly prestigious award which we were honoured to present. The finalists were made up of the who’s who of Australian M&A lawyers and once again Philippa laid claim to being the leading Dealmaker” Steven Scarlis, Managing Director, Scarlis Pringle PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

Scarlis Pringle was established in 1995 as a boutique Australian Legal Executive Search and Consulting firm. Scarlis Pringle has completed over 250 Senior Legal Search assignments and various consulting assignments for leading Australian and International law firms, and for major corporates. Today Scarlis Pringle has a unique comprehensive insight of the changing Australian legal market and the issues that concern law firms and their partners. Scarlis Pringle builds long term strategic relationships with its key clients. Steven Scarlis, Managing Director E: sscarlis@scarlispringle.com.au

P: 02 9222 9000

W: www.scarlispringle.com.au

EVENT PARTNER

AUSTRALIAN DEAL TEAM OF THE YEAR

ALLENS – MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS TEAM

NZ DEAL FIRM OF THE YEAR

CHAPMAN TRIPP

The Allens M&A team impressed with the size and complexity of the deals they worked on last year, with judges commenting on their “extraordinary depth and technical ability.” Corporate practice leader Guy Alexander accepted the award on behalf of the team, crediting the team’s work ethic and culture. “People really enjoy working with each other,” he said. “We work hard but we have fun as well.”

Chapman Tripp took out this category for the third year in a row following another strong year. Partner Hamish Foote mentioned the firm’s work on the partial sale of Kiwibank acting for New Zealand Post as being among the highlight deals of the past year. “Chapman Tripp continues to remain the ‘go to’ firm for the country’s most complex, strategic mandates,” read the judges’ comments.

FINALISTS

• • • •

• Bell Gully • Harmos Horton Lusk Ltd • Mayne Wetherell • MinterEllisonRuddWatts • Russell McVeagh • Simpson Grierson • Webb Henderson

Allen & Overy – Capital Markets Team Clayton Utz - Real Estate Team Gilbert + Tobin – Corporate Advisory Group Herbert Smith Freehills – Equity Capital Markets Team • Herbert Smith Freehills – Mergers & Acquisitions Team • King & Wood Mallesons (KWM) – Project, Energy & Resources Team • MinterEllison – Mergers & Acquisitions Team

www.australasianlawyer.com.au

LAW FIRM LEADER OF THE YEAR (<200 EMPLOYEES)

SANDRA GIBSON, LOD – LAWYERS ON DEMAND

Sandra Gibson was at the forefront of enormous change at Lawyer On Demand this past year, playing an instrumental role in the LOD/ AdventBalance merger. “We were very similar businesses so it wasn’t that much of a challenge but putting two cultures together is interesting,” Gibson told Australasian Lawyer. “I’m quite surprised (to win) but it’s brilliant, a great thing for NewLaw”, she said.

FINALISTS • • • • •

Paul Hopkins, Carter Newell Lawyers Vik Sundar, Chamberlains Law Firm Claire Carton, Griffin Legal Bechara Shamieh, Madison Marcus Law Firm Marcus McCarthy, Nexus Law Group

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SCARLIS PRINGLE LAW FIRM LEADER OF THE YEAR (>200 EMPLOYEES)

ROB CUTLER, CLAYTON UTZ Rob Cutler (pictured with Steven Scarlis) stood out for his leadership of flexible work and diversity policies at Clayton Utz during a period of solid growth for the firm. “D&I is one of the most important aspects of culture - law firms are high-pressure, highperforming organisations and it’s very important to foster a very safe, welcoming, collegiate environment notwithstanding the high-performing nature of the people within the organisation,” he said.

FINALISTS • • • •

Chris Freeland, Baker McKenzie Tony Macvean, Hall & Wilcox Sue Gilchrist, Herbert Smith Freehills Sue Kench, King & Wood Mallesons (KWM) • Michelle Dixon, Maddocks • John Nerurker, Mills Oakley

“There has never been a more difficult time to lead a national law firm through what is the most challenging and competitive legal market in the last decade. Congratulations to Rob Cutler for his leadership and commitment to guiding Clayton Utz through this period” Steven Scarlis, Managing Director, Scarlis Pringle PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

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STATE/REGIONAL FIRM OF THE YEAR

LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR (1-100 LAWYERS)

HARWOOD ANDREWS

SALVOS LEGAL

It was second time lucky for Harwood Andrews, which was a finalist in this category in 2016. Principal Rod Payne (pictured left with CEO Andrew Barnes) highlighted the firm’s community engagement as a point of difference for the firm, which opened an Albury office in 2016 and is now one of the largest firms in regional Victoria.

Salvos Legal’s unique business model sees the firm use the profits from commercial success to fund humanitarian work, recently reaching a milestone 20,000 free cases. Accepting the award on the night, partner Maryanne Ireland said of the firm’s approach “We have a lot of very dedicated lawyers both on the commercial side and on the humanitarian side.”

FINALISTS

• • • • • • •

• Bird & Bird • Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers • Carter Newell Lawyers • Chamberlains Law Firm • Holman Webb • Madison Marcus Law Firm • Proximity • Russells • Speirs Ryan

Carter Newell Lawyers Chamberlains Law Firm Cooper Grace Ward Lawyers Griffin Legal Jackson McDonald Russell Kennedy Lawyers TBA Law

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GLOBALX LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR (101-500 EMPLOYEES)

MILLS OAKLEY Innovation and growth were the deciding factors that saw Mills Oakley win in a highly competitive category, with judges calling Accelerator, the firm’s innovation program “groundbreaking”. CEO John Nerurker (pictured with Peter Maloney of GlobalX) said he was thrilled with the accolade. “The whole team has dug really deep this year and I’m very much looking forward to bringing this (award) home and telling everybody the good news,” he said.

FINALISTS • Allen & Overy • Baker McKenzie • Clyde & Co • Gilbert + Tobin • Hall & Wilcox • Maddocks • Russell Kennedy Lawyers • Sparke Helmore Lawyers

"All finalists in this category have made an outstanding impact. GlobalX admires and supports the hard work of all Australian legal professionals, and it's a privilege to present Mills Oakley with this award.” Peter Maloney, CEO, GlobalX PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

GlobalX is an award winning Australian legal technology provider, developing and supporting integrated online and software workflow solutions used by of thousands of legal professionals each day. Practitioners and firms rely on GlobalX to effectively manage their day-to-day workflow in a way that enables them to do more, in less time. GlobalX offers four core complementary solutions: GlobalX Search, Open Practice, Matter Centre and GlobalX Conveyancing & Legal Support Services. GlobalX Search and Legal Support Services also seamlessly integrate into a network of Practice and Document management systems. Maurizio Marmotta, National Key Account Manager E: Maurizio.Marmotta@globalx.com.au P: +0437 258 106

W: www.globalx.com.au

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FTI CONSULTING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR (>500 EMPLOYEES)

HERBERT SMITH FREEHILLS Involvement in some of the biggest deals in Australia, exceptional client service and a commitment to workplace diversity proved the winning combination for Herbert Smith Freehills this year. Managing partner for Asia and Australia Sue Gilchrist (pictured left with FTI Consulting's David Bowie) picked up the trophy on the night. “We think it’s a really special firm, we’ve done fantastic things over the past year, everyone’s worked incredibly hard and we’ve had great client feedback and this award summarises all of that,” she said.

FINALISTS • Allens • Ashurst • Clayton Utz • King & Wood Mallesons (KWM) • MinterEllison

“Having worked with many of Australia’s largest law firms on some of the year’s most critical and complex cases, it is our privilege to honour the country’s best and brightest.” David Bowie, FTI Consulting PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

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For more information about award winners and photos from the event, visit www.auslawawards.com.au