DLA Piper has appointed
Melinda Upton and
Jim Holding as new co-managing partners in Australia, effective early January 2017.
The news comes as it was revealed last month that
John Weber, the firm’s current managing partner, will be leaving the firm by the end of April 2017 to retire.
Upton is a leading intellectual property partner with extensive experience both in Australia and globally. She joined DLA Piper in 2012 and is Head of the Intellectual Property and Technology group in Australia.
Holding was until recently DLA Piper's Brisbane Managing Partner, having first joined the firm in 2011 as partner. He is an experienced corporate lawyer, specialising in major infrastructure, and energy and resources.
“I am delighted to take on the role of Co-Managing Partner in Australia. This is a very exciting time for DLA Piper, and we've certainly gained real momentum in the Australian market,” Upton said in a statement.
Meanwhile, Holding said that DLA Piper has made great progress towards its strategy to more closely align the Australian practice with the global firm, particularly over the past two years. He also noted a deeper technical ability in target practice areas and a focus on innovation and flexibility.
“I look forward to taking on the role of Co-Managing Partner as we continue to deliver a high-quality and seamless cross-border offering for our clients,” Holding said.
Weber, who has led the firm in Australia for more than two years, will be remaining as a member of the firm's Executive until he retires.
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