He started his career with the firm as a law clerk
Buddle Findlay has named Sherridan Cook as its new national chair.
Cook has been on the firm’s board for five years. He succeeds Jennifer Caldwell, who steps down after a five-year term as national chair.
“I’m fortunate to have worked with and have a strong connection with all three Buddle Findlay offices in Christchurch, Auckland and Wellington. My experience of being a Buddle Findlay board member and also working with boards of our clients in my day-to-day practice means I have a deep knowledge not only of our business and its governance, but also of businesses in general”, Cook said. “I hope to bring this experience to bear in guiding Buddle Findlay into the next phase of growth and supporting our clients through the complex and ever-changing economic and regulatory environment”.
Cook’s practice focuses on employment law. He also has a background in health and safety and commercial litigation.
He started his career as a law clerk at Buddle Findlay’s Wellington office. He then proceeded to log a stint overseas before coming back to the firm 16 years previously. At present, he is based in Auckland.
“Sherridan has an extraordinary ability to look beyond the immediate demands of providing day-to-day legal services and tackling the bigger issues. He spearheaded our Emerging Leaders programme at Buddle Findlay, helping our valued non-partner team members challenge themselves and develop into better leaders. He’s a key contributor to the firm’s culture and deserves his ongoing recognition as one of the top employment lawyers in the New Zealand legal profession”, Buddle Findlay chief executive Philip Maitland said.
Maitland and Cook praised Caldwell’s time leading the firm through the COVID-19 pandemic, a difficult economic environment, and major regulatory change.
“We’ve seen very strong performance and growth despite a depressed market, which is a credit to Jennifer’s leadership and ability to motivate our team. I share her belief in every voice being heard and valued, whether that’s within the business or with our clients”, Cook said.
Caldwell lauded Cook as a seasoned leader.
“Sherridan has a lot of governance and leadership experience. He is an active listener and encourages everyone to develop their strengths and be the best they can. I know Buddle Findlay is in extremely good hands”, Caldwell said.
