A leading New Zealand regulatory lawyer has been appointed managing partner in a top tier firm.
Chapman Tripp has appointed Andy Nicholls as a new managing partner in the firm’s Wellington practice for five years. He is also joining the firm’s board.
“It is a privilege to help lead one of New Zealand’s most successful law firms,” Nicholls said.
“Our clients value us having a managing partner with local knowledge in both Auckland and Wellington and it’s an important point of difference for the firm.
“In this new role, I look forward to working with Wellington businesses and local and central government to grow a strong and vibrant Wellington economy.”
A leading regulatory lawyer, Nicholls has been a partner at Chapman Tripp for 11 years.
He advises clients in New Zealand and the Pacific Islands on regulatory and competition law issues in the electricity, gas, telecommunications and airport sectors.
Roger Wallis, chairman of Chapman Tripp’s board, said the partnership congratulated Nicholls on his appointment.
“Andy is an experienced partner and practice team leader and has previously served two terms on the firm’s board.”
Nicholls replaces Mark Reese, who was at the helm of the Wellington practice for a decade and has now returned to full time legal practice as a partner in the firm’s banking and finance team.
The firm’s primary managing partner, Andrew Poole, will continue in his Auckland-based role until June 2016. His title now changes to chief executive partner.
