Macpherson Kelley appoints new Victorian property and construction head

Macpherson Kelley has bolstered its national property and construction team with three new hires, including two senior lawyers, one of whom has been tasked to be practice leader.

Sebastian Renato has returned to the firm as a principal, moving back from Herbert Smith Freehills. He will lead the property and construction team in Victoria and will focus on commercial real estate and property development, the firm said. He will be based in Dandenong.

Iresha Herath has also made the move back to Macpherson Kelley as a special counsel, 20 years after beginning her legal career at the firm as an article clerk. She was previously a senior associate at King & Wood Mallesons and general counsel for a large public health service and transport safety body in Victoria. She will be based in Melbourne.

Mitchell Passlow has been appointed by the firm as lawyer, adding experience in retail and commercial property, as well as several of the leading fast-food franchises in Australia. Passlow will be based in Sydney.

Steve Parker, Macpherson Kelley chief executive, said that property development and construction are significant parts of the Australian economy. He described the three newly appointed lawyers as “outstanding” and said their expertise will enable clients to achieve goals.