Vanessa Kingsmill

Vanessa heads up the Johannesburg practice of the Alternative Legal Services (ALT) business, leading a team of lawyers and legal analysts who combine legal expertise, process efficiency and cutting-edge technology solutions to provide pioneering legal advice and excellent value to clients. 

The Johannesburg team works as an integral part of ALT's global network and services clients across a range of industry sectors.

Vanessa has over 20 years' experience within the legal sector gained in major international law firms, as a practising Disputes lawyer, HR and L&D professional, Executive Coach and Partnership Secretary.

Vanessa joined Herbert Smith Freehills in 2017 and prior to leading the ALT Johannesburg team, she was Head of Practice Management for ALT globally, working closely with the ALT Managing Partner as part of the ALT Executive team. 

• ALT was ranked Band 1 by Chambers and Partners, 2021, for Alternative Legal Services Providers (Litigation Services – Global Wide).
• The ALT Johannesburg team were Winners, at the African Legal Awards 2021, in the category of Alternative Legal Service Provider Team of the Year.
• Band 2, Alternative Legal Services Providers (Contract Lifecycle Management and Law Firm LPO – Global Wide), Chambers and Partners, 2021

Background

Vanessa holds a Psychology degree from the University of Cape Town and completed her legal qualifications at the College of Law, Guildford (UK). She is a qualified Solicitor in England and Wales and also holds a Coaching qualification from Henley Business School.