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2018

2018 WINNERS

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2018

CELEBR ATING EXCELLENCE IN THE LEGAL PROFESSION

EVENT PARTNER

Thursday 17 May saw the legal profession’s top players celebrate the industry’s achievements and outstanding talents at a rousing awards event THE EVENING, sponsored by FTI Consulting, saw over 650 of the country’s best legal minds gathered to hear the winners announced in 34 categories, against a backdrop of lively entertainment. Attendees were treated to the comic stylings of MC Lawrence Mooney, a breathtaking performance by Aerialize, Sydney Aerial Theatre and classic tunes by the Luke Zanc Duo. The high point was of course the awards announcements. The 34 categories were decided by independent judging panel comprising managing partners and general counsels of leading companies. The 2018 awards continued last year’s additions recognising arbitrators, mediators and lawyers under 30. We would like to thank all the finalists for their participation. The Australasian Law Awards are a result of your hard work throughout the year and we are honoured to celebrate your accomplishments. To the 2018 winners: congratulations. To have been selected out of such an illustrious pool of finalists is a testament to your dedication and talent. Finally we would like to thank all of our judges, presenters and award sponsors, in particular our event partner FTI Consulting who’s support has made the awards possible over the years. Read on to find out who took home the trophies this year.

2018

INSOLVENCY & RESTRUCTURING DEAL OF THE YEAR

PROPERTY, INFRASTRUCTURE & PROJECTS DEAL OF THE YEAR

ARRIUM RESTRUCTURING

MELBOURNE METRO PROJECT

Arnold Bloch Leibler, Clayton Utz, Gilbert + Tobin and King & Wood Mallesons collaborated on this behemoth deal which involved billions of dollars of debt, not to mention the livelihoods of thousands of employees and the economy of a town. “This is one of the biggest consultancy and restructuring situations we’ve ever seen,” said Tim Kleinberg, partner at KWM (pictured second from the left). ABL partner Susanna Ford (not pictured) commented that the deal’s innovative approach was a factor in its success.

Jim Theodore, partner at Herbert Smith Freehills (second from left), said the Melbourne Metro Rail Authority and Rail Projects Victoria was one of the best projects in the world and a privilege to work on. The deal was made by Herbert Smith Freehills in collaboration with Allens, Clayton Utz, KPMG, MinterEllison, Norton Rose Fulbright and White & Case. Theodore described the deal as one of the biggest PPPs in Australian history and a city changing project.

FINALISTS

• • • • •

• Acquisition and sale of land in Sydney's North • Grafton Prison PPP • Western Roads Upgrade project • West Gate Tunnel Project

BIS Industries restructuring Boart Longyear restructuring Emeco recapitalisation and triple merger Slater & Gordon restructuring Ten Network restructuring

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DEBT MARKET DEAL OF THE YEAR

ENERGY & RESOURCES DEAL OF THE YEAR

RELIANCE RAIL DEBT FACILITIES RE-FINANCING

LATTICE ENERGY DUAL TRACK IPO/ TRADE SALE

It was the careful management of multiple party interests that grabbed the attention of the judges for this winning deal. “It’s a good recognition of a collaborative approach to getting the deal done,” said Spiro Papadolias, lawyer at Gilbert + Tobin (pictured left, with Charles Cho). G+T’s head of banking and infrastructure, John Schembri, had previously said of the deal,“ We are delighted at this outcome for Reliance Rail after months of negotiations and hard work from all sides on a very complex refinance.” Reliance Rail is a long term client of G+T, who headed up this deal along with Hogan Lovells.

Two years went into the Lattice Energy deal, in a joint effort by Allen & Overy, Chapman Tripp, Gilbert + Tobin, Herbert Smith Freehills and Russell McVeagh. Rob Merrick, global head of energy at Herbert Smith Freehills (pictured second right), said the award was a great credit to the large team that worked on the transaction. “We were running two teams in parallel with one another on two separate transactions, so it was a big effort by a number of people to pull it all together in the timeframe that was available to us and to achieve great outcomes for our clients and everybody involved.”

FINALISTS • Anheuser-Busch InBev medium-term note program • Australian Technology Innovators Term Loan B raising • Bank of Queensland conditional passthrough covered bonds • Members Equity Bank perpetual capital additional Tier 1 notes • NAB gender equality bonds • Pilbara Minerals secured bonds • Recapitalisation of craveable Brands

FINALISTS • Joint venture between CS Energy and Alinta Energy • Privatisation of Endeavour Energy • Yancoal acquisition of Coal & Allied

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2018

EQUITY MARKET DEAL OF THE YEAR

YANCOAL CAPITAL RAISING

M&A DEAL OF THE YEAR

YANCOAL ACQUISITION OF COAL & ALLIED

The award went to Allens, Ashurst, Gilbert + Tobin, Herbert Smith Freehills, King & Wood Mallesons and MinterEllison. Philippa Stone, partner at Herbert Smith Freehills (pictured second right) called the win a great achievement for the company. “This deal was opposed every step of the way, it was a meritorious deal and we got through every stage of opposition and got there and recapitalised the company.”

The Yancoal deal involved a major asset for the Hunter Valley and the New South Wales economy. Richard Malcolmson, partner at Allens (pictured far right) represented the vendor, Rio Tinto, which has been divesting from coal for a number of years. Asked what he thought made the deal stand out to judges, Malcolmson spoke of its long running process and complexity. “It required shareholder approval on the part of Rio Tinto which led to an interesting set of competing bids at the end of process... Ultimately Yancoal was successful so it was a good outcome for all the parties concerned.”

FINALISTS

• Domain/Fairfax separation • Downer PAITRED • Lattice Energy dual track IPO/ trade sales • Link Group capital raising • Netwealth IPO • West Gate Tunnel Project capital raising

• • • •

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Cheung Kong acquisition of DUET Downer takeover bid for Spotless Land and Property Information NSW concession Merger of Tatts with Tabcorp

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INTERNATIONAL DEAL OF THE YEAR

HUMANWELL HEALTHCARE/CITIC CAPITAL ACQUISITION OF ANSELL SEXUAL WELLNESS BUSINESS

Special counsel Matt Egerton-Warburton (pictured left, with Tim Gordon) accepted the award on behalf of King & Wood Mallesons. Other firms included in the award were Gilbert + Tobin, Khaitan & Co. and Thanatip & Partners. In deciding the winner, the judges took into account the difficulty of coordinating 30 law firms across international borders. It was an effort Egerton-Warburton summed up as, “A lot of sleepless nights, but a lot of funny jokes.”

FINALISTS • Link acquisition of Capita Asset Services • Timor-Leste/Australia maritime boundary conciliation

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2018

CORPORATE CITIZEN FIRM OF THE YEAR

DLA PIPER

The judges were impressed by DLA Piper’s global approach to corporate responsibility. The firm cast its net wider than the "popular" causes, showing a commitment to dig deeper into controversial issues. “[It] is testament to their sense of responsibility to make every person’s life a bit better.” Senior associate Charlotte Saunders (pictured left, with Claire Bibby) accepted the award on the firm’s behalf. “I think the biggest milestone was probably our work with our international partners in this space and how big that contribution has been throughout the firm.”

FINALISTS • • • •

Clayton Utz Gilbert + Tobin Harmers Workplace Lawyers Herbert Smith Freehills

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• King & Wood Mallesons • Maddocks • Pinsent Masons

EVENT PARTNER

JLT EMPLOYEE HEALTH & WELLBEING AWARD

COOPER GRACE WARD In picking Cooper Grace Ward as the winners, the judging panel commented on the extensive, well-rounded and innovative health and wellbeing programs offered across all areas. “Fantastic initiatives from a smaller firm and sounds like a great place to work,” said one judge of the firm. The award was accepted by Cooper Grace Ward’s workplace relations partner, Belinda Winter (pictured right, with JLT’s Chris Sinclair). “It’s a credit to the team that they’ve participated and really embraced it,” said Winter.

FINALISTS • • • • •

Bradley Allen Love Lawyers Carter Newell Lawyers Clayton Utz DLA Piper King & Wood Mallesons

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. JLT understands the people risk challenges faced by the legal industry and working in partnership with the profession has developed a unique approach to protecting your greatest asset, through risk mitigation and sustainable solutions. JLT are proud to be the only insurance broker with a specialised people risk o ering for law firms, transforming lives and families with our ‘whole of people risk’ approach. Contact: Chris Sinclair, Divisional Manager, Benefit Solutions P: +61 9290 6730 E: chris.sinclair@jlta.com.au

W: www.au.jlt.com

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2018

EMPLOYMENT LAW SPECIALIST FIRM OF THE YEAR

AUSTRALIAN BUSINESS LAWYERS & ADVISORS

Managing director Joe Murphy (pictured right, with Phillip Salem) accepted the award on behalf of Australian Business Lawyers & Advisors. “It’s an award that we’ve been after for a number of years,” he said. Indeed, judges noticed they were leading advocates in several test cases and commended their substantial growth while maintaining integrity. Murphy cites the diversity of employment law as its biggest attraction for practitioners. “We’re in all jurisdictions and there are so many different acts and regulations that apply to the area of law that we practice in.” ABL&A is in a unique position of being owned by a not-for-profit organisation and its range of specialist advice for a mix of not-for-profit and for-profit clients.

FINALISTS • • • •

Danny King Legal FCB Workplace Law Harmers Workplace Lawyers HR Law

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• HR Legal • Maurice Blackburn Lawyers - Employment Specialist • Workdynamic Australia

EVENT PARTNER

AIG INSURANCE SPECIALIST FIRM OF THE YEAR

SPARKE HELMORE LAWYERS

Sparke Helmore scored a hat trick, picking up the award for the third year running. The panel applauded the breadth and profile of the firm’s work and the consistent high quality it delivered to projects across the scale. Judges singled out their lawyers' exceptional legal knowledge, ability to meet client expectations, innovation and engagement with the market. “Three years in a row, you can’t get much better than that, so we’re delighted,” said partner Chris Wood (pictured second from right). Wood told Australasian Lawyer that the award was particularly important to them as one of the last standing Australian national law firms.

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

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. Contact: E: corporateadmin@aig.com

P: 1300 030 886

W: www.aig.com.au / www.aig.co.nz

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2018

AUSTRALASIAN LAWYER IP SPECIALIST FIRM OF THE YEAR

BIRD & BIRD

Bird & Bird were described by the judges as, “a competent, clever organisation that ensures that it stacks its deck with the right team for the job and their results speak for themselves in their ability to attract great talent". Partner Jane Owen (pictured) accepted on behalf of the firm. Asked what set them apart for the second year in a row, Owen responded, “I think it was a pretty tight field but we’ve been growing in the last couple of years and I think we’ve been doing some amazing work and maybe that was the difference.”

FINALISTS • AJ Park • Baldwins Intellectual Property • Banki Haddock Fiora • Griffith Hack • Media Arts Lawyers • Phillips Ormonde Fitzpatrick • Wrays

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Australasian Lawyer is the leading independent publication for the legal industry in Australasia. Reaching the most senior lawyers, in-house counsel and corporate decision makers, Australasian Lawyer focuses on industry news analysis, international and local profiles, interviews with domestic and international industry leaders and special reports recognising the top-performing lawyers and firms in the field. Contact: Paul Ferris, Business Development Manager E: paul.ferris@keymedia.com.au P: +61 2 8437 4703 W: www.auslawawards.com.au

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EVENT PARTNER

FTI CONSULTING BOUTIQUE FIRM OF THE YEAR

VINCENT YOUNG LAWYERS “We’re ecstatic,” said founding partner Brett Vincent (pictured right, with Dawna Wright of FTI Consulting). “A group of 10 of us are here and we’re over the moon.” The small firm has grown exponentially over the past year, now employing 23 people. The judges tipped them as a firm to watch thanks to an impressive client list, fantastic feedback and involvement in significant and high-profile matters in their space.

FINALISTS • Bellanhouse Lawyers • Bespoke • Clarendon Lawyers • Danny King Legal • Lawlab • Massons • NDA Law • Sierra Legal • Speirs Ryan

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

FTI Consulting, Inc. is a global business advisory firm dedicated to helping organisations protect and enhance enterprise value in an increasingly complex legal, regulatory and economic environment. FTI Consulting professionals, who are located in all major business centres throughout the world, work closely with clients to anticipate, illuminate and overcome complex business challenges in areas such as investigations, litigation, mergers & acquisitions, regulatory issues, reputation management & restructuring. Contact: Dawna Wright, Senior Managing Director E: dawna.wright@fticonsulting.com

P: +61 3 9604 0604

W: www.fticonsulting.com

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2018

RESOLUTION INSTITUTE AUSTRALIAN ARBITRATOR OF THE YEAR

JOHN WAKEFIELD

“It’s a wonderful achievement to be recognised by your peers,” said John Wakefield (pictured right, with Gary Ulman, Chair of Resolution Institute) of winning the award. A partner at Holman Webb Lawyers, Wakefield described good arbitration as giving people the opportunity to have their disputes resolved quickly and cheaply. “Not every dispute has to go to court, there are other ways of dealing with them and arbitration is one of them, particularly in the international sphere.” The judging panel took note of Wakefield’s excellent credentials and commitment to the individual development in his staff.

FINALISTS • Antonio de Fina • Steven Goldstein • Gordon Smith

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EVENT PARTNER

RESOLUTION INSTITUTE AUSTRALIAN MEDIATOR OF THE YEAR

DR ANNE PURCELL Although Dr Anne Purcell was unable to attend the award ceremony, she was a clear winner for the judges in the selection process. The panel was impressed by her substantial professional achievements, her leadership and contribution to mediation practice. One judge commented: “A very diverse thinker with a real commitment to solutions-based legal practice, using it as a tool to obtain a positive outcome not a weapon.”

FINALISTS • • • • •

David Bryson Danielle Jaku-Greenfield Stephen Lancken Dr Nicki McWilliam Alison Shaw

“It’s really important [to support this award]. There’s so much work done by mediators and arbitrators in resolving disputes and it’s a really good way of keeping clients out of court, which of course many clients want and it’s the job of lawyers to do that whenever possible.” 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. Contact: Fiona Hollier, CEO E: fiona.hollier@resolution.institute

P: 1800 651 650

W: www.resolution.institute

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2018

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

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

REBECCA JOHNSTON, HODGKINSONJOHNSTON

HAYLEY WARREN, RCR TOMLINSON

Rebecca Johnston (pictured right, with Carlie Griggs) is remarkable as a young partner of a firm, but she has also made her mark more widely in international aviation and aerospace law as an editor of the Aviation Law Association of Australia and New Zealand's Aviation Briefs, and as an editor of Aviation and Climate Change Law & Policy. “It feels fantastic,” she said of winning the award. “I was in such great company, I’m very honoured to be mentioned in the category.”

Legal counsel for RCR Tomlinson Hayley Warren (pictured right, with Neil Russ) was surprised but very honoured to be named the winner. She credits the interesting work she has been doing in renewables for setting her apart, telling Australasian Lawyer that such projects are exciting for Australia and for the young lawyers who get to work on them. Warren was also noticed for her community involvement, which saw her nominated to the board of Down Syndrome NSW.

FINALISTS

• • • • • • • •

• • • •

Elyse Adams, Allens Bibhu Aggarwal, Herbert Smith Freehills Laura Hillhouse, Ashurst Hannah Catherine Morris, Mills Oakley Vishaal Sharma, King & Wood Mallesons Lara Solomons, Clayton Utz Sagar Sritharan, Ashurst Stipe Vuleta, Chamberlains Law Firm

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Steven Clayton, AIA Australia Kendra Fouracre, Telstra Ben Gilbert, Microsoft Australia Theo Kapodistrias, University of Tasmania

EVENT PARTNER

BANKING & FINANCIAL SERVICES IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR

TOYOTA FINANCE AUSTRALIA

While it has been a challenging year in financial services, teams like the one working in Toyota Financial Services have used current events as an opportunity for positive action. Judges noted their contribution to regulatory issues and partnership with UTS on an internship program. General counsel Adam Hopkins (pictured left, with John Nerurker) explained that lawyers are taking on a much bigger role in setting the social licence to operate. “The team’s done a really good job leading the ethical compass of the organisation.”

FINALISTS • Bank of China • Commonwealth Bank of Australia • Challenger • ICBC • NAB Legal • Travelex • Westpac

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2018

SPARKE HELMORE INSURANCE IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR

AIA AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

AIA commanded the panel’s attention with the value, complexity and breadth of their remit. Comments included, “an impressive list of transactions and achievements” and, “well-rounded and busy team with a well-documented track record”. General counsel Michael Tropea (pictured third from left) relished the opportunity to give the team something to work on out of “business as usual”. Of the awards night, Tropea said, “It’s always good to see our industry recognised and I think, particularly, for in-house teams. I think we often watch our colleagues in business units win awards, sales awards and things and it’s nice for us to have a

FINALISTS • AIG • Berkley Insurance Australia • Dual • Steadfast • Suncorp

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. Contact: James Johnson and Chris Wood E: info@sparke.com.au P: +61 2 9373 3555 W: www.sparke.com.au

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EVENT PARTNER

MINTERELLISON INVESTMENT BANK IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR

MACQUARIE CAPITAL LEGAL TEAM

The team from Macquarie Capital picked up the award for the second year running. It was perhaps the crowning jewel in a stellar year for the team, who also topped the league table credits on M&A and ECM while juggling an active principle investment business. The word “impressive” came up several times in the judges’ comments with regards to their case list. Executive director Kirsten Jung (pictured centre right) promised next year would be bigger and better.

FINALISTS • • • • • • •

CITI Group Credit Suisse Deutsche Bank Goldman Sachs Australia J.P Morgan Morgan Stanley UBS AG

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

MinterEllison is an international law firm, headquartered in Australia and regarded as one of Asia-Pacific's premier law firms. Our teams collaborate across Australia, New Zealand, Asia and the UK to deliver exceptional outcomes. We have a clear goal – to be our clients' best partner. We put the client at the centre of everything we do and partner with them to deliver truly innovative solutions. We also think beyond the law, offering clients advisers who are multi-disciplinary and industry-facing to help them realise their strategic goals, grasp business opportunities and create value for their stakeholders. Contact: Tony Harrington AM, Chief Executive Partner E: tony.harrington@minterellison.com

P: +61 2 9921 4400

W: www.minterelllison.com

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2018

RUSSELL MCVEAGH NZ IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR

FONTERRA CO-OPERATIVE GROUP LIMITED Fonterra has seen a big turnaround in the past few years, and is now the biggest dairy and milk processer across the Tasman in Australia. General counsel Luke Facer (pictured far right) attributed his team’s success to strong communication despite offices located all around the world. “We talk a lot, so we don’t work in silos,” he said. “Whether it’s using technology like Skype, or actually travelling to meet each other and talking about some of the challenges we’re dealing with.”

FINALISTS • AMP Financial Services • ANZ Bank New Zealand • Kiwibank • Powerco • Spark Legal Team • UBS AG • Vector • Westpac 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). Contact: Gary McDiarmid, Chief Executive Officer E: gary.mcdiarmid@russellmcveagh.com P: +64 9 367 8091 W: www.russellmcveagh.com

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EVENT PARTNER

FTI CONSULTING AUSTRALIAN IN-HOUSE LAWYER OF THE YEAR

MARY ROBERTS, TELSTRA Telstra legal counsel Mary Roberts (pictured right, with John Park) was surprised at being named the winner, but “very happy and honoured.” Roberts impressed judges with her strong support of the business and its innovation strategies (such as quantum computing), which was balanced with her mentoring and support of women lawyers in the organisation. True to form, Roberts attributed her success to the interesting projects she had worked on and the colleagues who she felt were equally deserving of the award.

FINALISTS • • • • • •

Jorja Cleeland, Fonterra Craig Emery, Telstra Legal Services Gail Hambly, Fairfax Media Cesilia Kim, Snowy Hydro Limited Stuart Thomas, Ten Network Peter Tompkins, Downer Group

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

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2018

NEW ZEALAND DEALMAKER OF THE YEAR

SCARLIS PRINGLE AUSTRALIAN DEALMAKER OF THE YEAR

PIP GREENWOOD, RUSSELL MCVEAGH

REBECCA MASLEN-STANNAGE, HERBERT SMITH FREEHILLS Rebecca Maslen-Stannage was unable to attend the Australasian Law Awards ceremony, but the trophy was accepted on her behalf by Grant Marjoribanks, a fellow partner at Herbert Smith Freehills. “The thing that really strikes me about Rebecca is her total client focus and real commitment to the client’s interest,” said Marjoribanks about his colleague. “Also too, she motivates her team and inspires them and they really respond to that.” In the words of one judge: “Utter brilliance!”

FINALISTS

A winner in the 2016 Australasian Law Awards, Pip Greenwood, partner at Russell McVeagh, stood out again this year as a pre-imminent dealmaker. Judges also lauded Greenwood as an example of why equality in the workplace works: “She provides excellence in her practice and is a role model to the next generation.”

FINALISTS • David Coull, Bell Gully • Michael Gartshore, Webb Henderson • Michael Pollard, Simpson Grierson • Silvana Schenone, MinterEllisonRuddWatts • John Strowger, Chapman Tripp • Cameron Taylor, MinterEllisonRuddWatts

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• Guy Alexander, Allens • Tony Damian, Herbert Smith Freehills • David Holland, Baker McKenzie • Grant Koch, DLA Piper • Mark Stanbridge, Ashurst • Philippa Stone, Herbert Smtih Freehills • Michael Ziegelaar, Herbert Smith Freehills 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. Contact: Steven Scarlis, Managing Director E: sscarlis@scarlispringle.com.au

P: +61 2 9222 9000

W: www.scarlispringle.com.au

EVENT PARTNER

NZ DEAL FIRM OF THE YEAR

AUSTRALIAN DEAL TEAM OF THE YEAR

BELL GULLY

ALLENS

While all the submissions for this category were of a high caliber, Bell Gully stood out due to the number and scope of its deals. Partner David Coull (pictured left, with Amon Nunns) told Australasian Lawyer that it had been a big year for the team at Bell Gully, of which one of the highlights was the strength of M&A activity in New Zealand. “The whole team’s been busy across a whole different variety of transactions, M&A, capital markets,” said Coull.

Allens partner and practice leader Guy Alexander (pictured right, with Justin Kennedy) once again accepted the trophy on behalf of the firm. On scooping the win in 2018, Alexander said, “Another fantastic year, couldn’t be happier.” Last year when the firm won the award, Alexander had remarked the recognition was testament to the team's hard work across a range of client transactions. He also credited the firm’s work ethic and positive culture.

FINALISTS

FINALISTS • Chapman Tripp • Harmos Horton Lusk • MinterEllisonRuddWatts • Russell McVeagh • Simpson Grierson • Webb Henderson

• • • • • • •

Ashurst M&A/ECM Team Clayton Utz Real Estate Team Gilbert + Tobin Herbert Smith Freehills ECM Team Herbert Smith Freehills M&A Team King & Wood Mallesons M&A King & Wood Mallesons Restructuring & Insolvency • MinterEllison Infrastructure, Construction & Property

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2018

LAW FIRM LEADER OF THE YEAR (<200 EMPLOYEES)

CLAIRE CARTON, GRIFFIN LEGAL

The judges described Griffin Legal’s managing partner Claire Carton as a champion for women and of creating a law firm culture that is supportive, flexible and effective. It was noted that Carton has been successful in implementing a positive company culture. Judges commented that she was “obviously trying to practice in the 21st century”, giving consideration to the needs of the workforce, while maintaining high corporate standards. Carton was unable to attend on the night.

FINALISTS • • • • • •

Simon Creek, HHG Legal Group Greg Malakou, Holman Webb Lawyers Bechara Shamieh, Madison Marcus Law Firm Vik Sundar, Chamberlains Law Firm Chris Ward, Cooper Grace Ward Demetrio Zema, Law Squared

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EVENT PARTNER

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

ROBERT CUTLER, CLAYTON UTZ Keeping a large corporate law firm on top of its game year after year is a challenge, but it appears that Clayton Utz’s chief executive partner Robert Cutler (pictured right, with Dominic Peacock) has the formula down pat and leads an impressive firm that obtains excellent results. Last year, Cutler cited diversity and inclusion as one of the most important aspects of work culture. That Cutler scooped the award again is a testament to his continuing leadership and commitment to the environment at Clayton Utz. It was an outcome he found, “very pleasing”.

FINALISTS • • • • •

Michelle Dixon, Maddocks Danny Gilbert, Gilbert + Tobin Tony Harrington, MinterEllison Tony Macvean, Hall & Wilcox John Nerurker, Mills Oakley

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2018

CLAYTON UTZ AUSTRALIAN IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR

BHP LEGAL TEAM The judges described the BHP team as "world class" and “one of the finest in-house legal teams in the world”. The panel was impressed with the scale and breadth of legal matters they have dealt with, their diverse skill-sets (which includes non-lawyers in the team) and their awareness of BHP's social licence and community expectations. Accepting on behalf of the BHP, former vice-president of legal Steve Smith (pictured right, with Rob Cutler) said the highlight of the year was how they had pulled together as a team and continued their journey to improve service.

FINALISTS • • • • • • •

Downer Group Legal Team Nova Entertainment’s Legal Team Office of General Counsel, NSW Treasury Origin Energy Singtel Optus Snowy Hydro Limited Legal Team Vodafone Hutchison Australia Legal Team • Yancoal Australia 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. Contact: Rob Cutler, Chief Executive Partner E: rcutler@claytonutz.com P: +61 2 9353 4104

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EVENT PARTNER

AUSTRALIAN DEAL OF THE YEAR

ARRIUM RESTRUCTURE

The finalists in this category comprised the winners of the market-specific deal awards: Debt Market, Energy & Resources, Equity Market, Insolvency & Restructuring, International, M&A and Property, Infrastructure & Projects. In winning the overall award, Susanna Ford of Arnold Bloch Leibler (pictured centre) noted that it had been an extraordinarily collaborative experience. KMW’s Tim Klineberg (pictured second left) added, “I think this has saved a whole town, it saved a big part of the South Australian economy, and I think from our perspective it forged new ground in the law in insolvency practice. It just changed the market, frankly.”

FINALISTS • Humanwell Healthcare/CITIC Capital acquisition of Ansell sexual wellness business • Lattice Energy dual track IPO/trade sale • Melbourne Metro Project • Reliance Rail Debt facilities re-financing • Yancoal acquisition of Coal & Allied • Yancoal Capital Raising

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2018

STATE/REGIONAL FIRM OF THE YEAR

CARTER NEWELL LAWYERS

Carter Newell work represented a good cross section of matters across regional and metropolitan Queensland and judges commended them as an established and credible presence in the market. “This firm is to be admired for its focus on its commitment to its strategic plan in delivering the best possible service it can at a reasonable price,” said one judge. Accepting the award was partner, Patrick Mead (pictured right, with Michael Bath and Claire Bibby), who was particularly proud of the contribution the firm had made to the development and growth of Queensland.

AUTOMIO LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR (1-100 LAWYERS)

RUSSELLS

Russells was described by the judges as a law firm with its eye on the future, recognising the need to be more than "just a lawyer", but also a member of the community that gives back. Partner Glenn Hughes (pictured far right) was delighted with the achievement. “It’s pretty impressive actually. For a small firm to win an award like this, it’s unreal.”

FINALISTS • • • • • • • • •

Chamberlains Law Firm Clarendon Lawyers Cooper Grace Ward Harmers Workplace Lawyers Hive Legal Holman Webb Lawyers Legal Vision Madison Marcus Law Firm Speirs Ryan

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FINALISTS • • • • •

Chamberlains Law Firm Cooper Grace Ward Harwood Andrews Jackson McDonald Morgan + English Commercial Lawyers • NDA Law • Range Lawyers

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

SPARKE HELMORE LAWYERS Judges said that Sparke Helmore had provided excellence in legal services to clients worldwide, ensuring the Australian legal practice remains distinguished on an international stage. National managing partner Phillip Salem (pictured right, with Peter Maloney) said, “It’s absolutely wonderful to be winning this award. The firm’s been around for 136 years and for it to be still full of energy and producing great work for our clients, there’s nothing more rewarding.” According to Salem, what set Sparke Helmore apart from the competition was its ‘client first’ approach as: “We put clients at the beginning and at the end of everything we do. That’s our secret.”

FINALISTS • • • •

Arnold Bloch Leibler • Maddocks • Mills Oakley Clyde & Co • Piper Alderman Gilbert + Tobin Hall & Willcox

“The Australasian Law Awards recognise the best in breed of Australia’s legal profession. With over 700 people attending the event, it is one of Australia’s most important calendar events in the legal profession.” Rafe Berding, Chief Marketing Officer, 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. Contact: Maurizio Marmotta, National Key Account Manager E: Maurizio.Marmotta@globalx.com.au P: +61 437 258 106

W: www.globalx.com.au

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2018

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

HERBERT SMITH FREEHILLS

Herbert Smith Freehills was the stand-out firm based on the criteria, having acted on a broad range of transactions and disputes over the last year and demonstrated leadership and consistent quality in the market. HSF were also praised for keeping a firm eye on the social responsibilities of privileged organisations. Partner Kirsty Faichen (pictured third from right) told Australasian Lawyer of a number of big things planned for next year. “A lot of deals are happening in the marketplace and from an employment law perspective, which is my specialism, we’re looking at quite a lot of change in that space. So a lot more fun, a lot more team work.”

FINALISTS • Allens • Ashurst • Clayton Utz • King & Wood Mallesons • MinterEllison • Sullivan & Cromwell

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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. Contact: Dawna Wright, Senior Managing Director E: dawna.wright@fticonsulting.com P: +61 3 9604 0604 W: www.fticonsulting.com

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2018

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