Ash Hill took over for Philip Maw as managing partner at the start of the month
Corporate advisory and transactions partner Ash Hill has ascended to the helm of Wynn Williams as managing partner.
Hill replaced Philip Maw in the position as of 1 April. Hill has been part of the firm since 2014, and played a key role in the launch of Wynn Williams’ Auckland branch.
“In the space of just 10 years, Wynn Williams has grown from a well-known regional firm in Canterbury to a full service national firm with three offices across Aotearoa, supporting domestic and international clients across almost every sector. Our growth has been welcomed by the market and I’m excited to now lead the firm and further showcase the expertise of our people”, Hill said.
He sat on the board for three years, and served on the executive committee for two years. He is expected to continue working on M&A deals while in his new role.
Maw will remain on the firm’s board and carry on as a partner on the environment and planning and local government teams. Hill acknowledged his predecessor’s contributions to the firm’s strength over his tenure, which lasted more than four years.
“Philip has led the firm through an incredible period of growth, all the while working through the turbulent times brought about by a global pandemic. Having worked closely with him on the executive and the board I know we have been extremely lucky to have had the benefit of Philip’s commitment, wisdom and leadership over this period”, Hill said.
Wynn Williams also started the month off strong with the elevation of 11 lawyers in the firm’s Ōtautahi Christchurch and Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland branches.
Dispute resolution lawyers Courtney Donaldson, Kate Bradley and Matt Rhodes rose to the role of senior associate. Donaldson and Bradley focus on relationship property and family cases, while Rhodes concentrates on civil and commercial issues.
The following lawyers were promoted to associate:
Matthew Jackson – property
Prashant Kumar – corporate advisory and transactions
Soojin Lee – corporate advisory and transactions
Hannah Lindo – dispute resolution
Sam Macintosh – dispute resolution
Meg Moot – property
Laura O’Dwyer – dispute resolution
India Shores – dispute resolution
“These promotions add further depth to some of the key practice areas that Wynn Williams is best known”, Hill said of the promotions. “A commitment to the professional development of our people is at the core of the Firm’s values. It’s a privilege to work with these talented young lawyers and I congratulate each of them on progressing to an exciting new stage in their careers”.
