DLA Phillips Fox has announced that its latest partnership addition will come directly from the offices of the FMA.
Sue Brown, currently the head of strategy, innovation and engagement and the Financial Markets Authority, will take up a partnership in the firm’s Wellington office from 1 July this year.
Brown tells NZ Lawyer she looks forward to helping DLA Phillips Fox implement the changes to the Financial Markets Conduct Act, as well as develop the firm’s Wellington office and international relationships.
“[The new role] is completely alongside the work that I’ve been doing here at FMA, with my work on strategy for the future of our financial markets and actually achieving the change that the Financial Markets Conduct Act is seeking to achieve,” says Brown. “The other part of that is in the way that the market responds to the changes…and the market needs people like me working alongside them and with them to achieve those outcomes – at least, that’s what I hope!”
She says she’s opted to return to private practice following her time at the FMA because she’s ready for some new challenges.
“It’s a question of picking the right time to take on some new challenges, so that was one thing, from a personal point of view; new challenges, new environment,” she says. “Also, I think the other really important part from my point of view was being able to be a continuing part of the change that we’re all seeking to achieve in our financial markets.”
Brown wouldn’t be specifically drawn on whether her move would bring new clients to the DLA Phillips Fox table, but says she’s been working in the financial markets for quite some time alongside the people that “we’re seeking to help and develop to grow”.
Brown has more than 25 years’ local and international experience in financial markets and law, including in New Zealand, Australia and the UK.
In her new role at DLA Phillips Fox, she will provide advice on corporate, regulatory and government issues and will also work closely with colleagues globally as the firm continues its close relationship with
DLA Piper.
“In New Zealand, I’ll focus on helping clients find solutions to challenges they face in the financial markets, regulatory and government sectors, deepen the alignment of the firm with DLA Piper, promote the strategic growth of the Wellington office and assist in developing depth and expertise among the team,” she says.
Qualified in law in the UK and admitted as a solicitor in New Zealand, Australia (NSW) and England & Wales, Brown is also a board member of Dress for Success Wellington.
