Global firm bolsters Aussie practice, re-elects managing partner
Clifford Chance in Sydney has added two new partners to its Australian practice and re-elected its global managing partner.
The two partners joining the firm’s corporate and private equity team are Andrew Crook, joining from Hogan Lovells; and Mark Currell of
Herbert Smith Freehills.
"This is exciting for our team in Australia where we're witnessing increased levels of corporate and financing activity in the market. Bringing Andrew and Mark on board further strengthens our thriving Corporate team in these important areas for our clients, many of whom are key domestic and international players," said Richard Gordon, Australia Managing Partner.
The firm has just re-elected Matthew Layton as global managing partner after an uncontested election. His second four-year term will begin on 1st May 2018.
Layton commented that the pace of change and uncertainty for clients if both a risk and an opportunity for the firm.
“Our success will depend on our ability to invest in talent and evolve our service model, working in true collaboration with our clients," he said.
Kennedys makes significant team hire
Kennedys has hired a team from Mayer Brown to significantly enhance its multi-jurisdictional insurance and risk capabilities.
The team of five partners includes David Chadwick who headed Mayer’s insurance and reinsurance group in London, and all will join officially in the New Year. One of the five will relocate to Kennedys’ Dublin office.
“It’s been another very positive year of growth for Kennedys and I am looking forward to being able to announce further developments in 2018," commented Nick Thomas, Kennedys’ senior partner.
Could this be the key to beating law firm stress?
Lawyers will work alongside four-legged friends in one global firm’s London office next week and it could be a good move.
Eversheds Sutherland will allow staff to bring their dog to work as part of a national charity campaign – and that includes co-CEO Lee Ranson.
“This is a great opportunity for colleagues to bring their four-legged friends in to the office. I’m very much looking forward to hosting our canine companions and crossing everything that my dog, Poppy, behaves herself,” said Ranson.
The event will be co-ordinated by a canine creche who will ensure that dogs’ needs are taken care of.
But as well as being a bit of fun, the idea of dogs in the workplace could help tackle the increasing issue of workplace stress, a big concern in the legal profession.
New research from online job board CV-Library found that almost half of women believe having a pet at work relives stress, helps relaxation and makes them more approachable.
Men are more likely to be against the idea.
The study reveals that 1 in 5 workplaces already allows staff to bring their pets to work.
