Herbert Smith Freehills has appointed Peter Butler to the role of Managing Partner of the Brisbane office. Peter succeeds Michael Back, who is stepping down from the role he has held for over 20 years.

Herbert Smith Freehills has appointed Peter Butler to the role of Managing Partner of the Brisbane office. Peter succeeds Michael Back, who is stepping down from the role he has held for over 20 years.

Peter leads the firm’s Projects team in Queensland, and is one of Australia’s leading infrastructure lawyers.

Peter said, “I am honoured to be taking on this role, particularly following Michael, who has been the driving force behind the success of the Brisbane office.

“Local and global markets are presently undergoing significant change, which is creating enormous opportunities for the firm and our clients. The Brisbane office of HSF is a crucial part of the firm’s Australian and international network, and our willingness to adapt and commitment to excellence makes us perfectly placed to help our clients prosper.”

Sue Gilchrist, the firm’s joint Regional Managing Partner of Australia and Asia, paid tribute to Michael Back’s contribution.

“Michael has led the Brisbane office through a period of incredible development and success. He started the office with just 2 partners, and it has now grown to an office with 20 partners and over 200 staff.

“As a highly respected senior leader in the firm, he will continue to focus on his successful projects practice, and the close client and investor relationships he has developed throughout Australia and Asia over the last 25 years.”

Sue Gilchrist also congratulated Peter Butler, saying, “Peter has over 20 years of experience in Australian and international markets, and brings outstanding leadership qualities to his new role. The appointment reflects his impressive reputation among his clients and colleagues.”

The HSF Brisbane office has recently moved to the newly constructed premium office tower at 480 Queen Street, reflecting its continued growth in the Brisbane market and its drive to provide staff and clients with an innovative, flexible working environment.

About Herbert Smith Freehills
Operating from over 26 offices across Asia Pacific, EMEA and North America, Herbert Smith Freehills is at the heart of the new global business landscape providing premium quality, full-service legal advice. We provide many of the world’s most important organisations with access to market-leading dispute resolution, projects and transactional legal advice, combined with expertise in a number of global industry sectors, including energy, natural resources, infrastructure, technology and financial services. www.herbertsmithfreehills.com

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