Herbert Smith Freehills confirms appointment of Rebecca Maslen-Stannage as new Chair and Senior Partner

Global law firm Herbert Smith Freehills today announced the appointment of Rebecca Maslen-Stannage as Senior Partner and Chair of the Global LLP Council. She succeeds James Palmer, who steps down after more than six years in the role on 30 April 2021 and returns to full-time practice and client focus.

The appointment, which follows a partnership vote, will take effect from 1 May 2021 for a term of four years.

Rebecca joined the firm in 1994 and is one of Australia’s most highly rated corporate lawyers. Rebecca served on the firm’s Global Council from 2012 to 2019, including as Deputy Senior Partner from 2015, and has been closely involved in the firm’s recruitment and pro bono activity, as well as its diversity and mentoring initiatives. She will continue to maintain her practice in conjunction with performing the role of Chair/Senior Partner.

Rebecca Maslen-Stannage commented: "I am proud of our incredible, diverse talent and positive culture and the fact that we are trusted by clients to advise on an impressive array of matters around the world. I look forward to working with and leading the Partnership Council in its important role and supporting our CEO Justin D’Agostino and the Executive team in achieving the next phase of our strategic goals.”

James Palmer commented: “I share the view of our partners that Rebecca will be an outstanding Chair and Senior Partner of the firm. She has exceptional experience, thinks deeply and strategically about issues and is incredibly respected both inside the firm and by clients and others outside. I greatly enjoyed working closely with her on the Council and look forward to her leadership and ambition for the firm.”

Rebecca advises leading Australian and international clients in private and public M&A, equity capital markets and corporate governance.  She is a member of the Takeovers Panel in Australia and has been awarded Australian “Dealmaker of the Year” on multiple occasions for advising on high profile matters including the sale of Australian department store company David Jones to Woolworths South Africa and merging TPG Telecom with Vodafone-Hutchinson Australia.

CEO Justin D’Agostino added: "Rebecca is uniquely qualified for this role. She has always excelled as a dynamic and inspirational leader. I look forward to working closely with her to realise the firm's ambitions.”