Firm says promotions reflect its "commitment to nurturing the careers of its staff in Australia"
Kennedys has bolstered its Australian offering in its latest round of senior promotions, which the firm said the promotions reflect its “continued growth and commitment to nurturing the careers of its staff in Australia.”
The firm welcomed two new special counsel to its insurance practice – Edwina Fenwick (Melbourne) and Jonathan Shakenovsky (Sydney).
Fenwick has advised on matters involving public liability, product liability, professional negligence, construction and recovery claims. Her clients include both insurers and insured.
She has acted as a mentor to paralegals and junior members of the firm’s insurance team.
“Edwina’s technical skills, subject knowledge and work ethic have been highlighted by clients, partners and peers, alongside her ability to handle complex cases,” Kennedys said.
Notable for his success in complex litigation, Shakenovsky boasts experience in dispute resolution and investigations, including complex litigated and un-litigated commercial, professional services and D&O disputes, investigations and inquiries. He advises and represents insurers on coverage and indemnity claims, focusing mainly on professional indemnity, financial institutions and crime and fidelity.
Meanwhile, joining Kennedys’ roster of senior associates are Dilani Patrick (healthcare), Ingrid Kristiansen (healthcare/insurance), and Nicholas Driver (commercial).
Patrick, who has been with the firm since 2019, specialises in healthcare insurance. She advises medical practitioners and private hospitals in matters like medical negligence, disciplinary proceedings, registration issues, coronial inquests and healthcare complaints.
She plays an active role in Victoria’s legal community as a member of the LIV Young Lawyers’ editorial and professional development committee and by being part of the Law in Colour initiative. She has also been part of mentor and mentee relationships in health and medical law, Kennedys said.
Kristiansen has particular expertise in professional indemnity, property damage and personal injury as an insurance litigation lawyer. She has been lauded for her remarkable work ethic and effective handling of sensitive cases.
She has also been an important part of Kennedys’ CSR charity support program.
A commercial litigator, Driver has appeared before the Supreme Courts of NSW and Victoria, the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, and the Federal Circuit Court. He has applied his expertise in commercial litigation, administrative law, bankruptcy and insolvency law, and IP law to advise government bodies, individuals and private enterprises.
Matt Andrews, managing partner of Kennedys Australia, said the firm had continued to thrive despite the past year’s challenges.
“Kennedys is focused on supporting our team’s career aspirations. Congratulations to our new senior associates and special counsel on their promotions – they have earned it,” he said. “Throughout the peaks and troughs of the pandemic period, they have continued to deliver clients outstanding service and advice.”
