King & Wood Mallesons (KWM) has announced the appointment of Renae Lattey as the new Chief Executive Partner of the Australian practice, and David Friedlander as Chairman of the Australian practice.
Currently Managing Partner Clients and Mergers & Acquisitions, Renae has been a member of the firm's Australian Executive Management team since 2017 and will succeed Berkeley Cox who has held the position for a similar time.
Commenting on Renae's appointment, Australian Chairman David Friedlander shared:
"I am delighted to confirm Renae's appointment. Renae is well placed to lead the Australian practice as we continue to build on our strong foundation and vision to be a top tier international law firm from Asia, for the world. The Australian practice is a vibrant part of our global firm, and I am looking forward to working with Renae to drive closer connectivity across our global network.
We thank Berkeley for his strong leadership during his tenure as CEP of the Australian practice and wish him all the best for his continued work in the firm."
Global Chief Executive Sue Kench said:
"I am thrilled that Renae Lattey has been appointed as Chief Executive Partner for the Australian practice.
Our vision is to be a top tier international law firm from Asia, for the world. This means using our global platform and expertise to enable our clients to do business across regions and pursue cross-border opportunities in the world's key growth markets. I am looking forward to working together to create greater opportunities for deepening the connectivity between Australia and the firm's global network."
In her MP Clients and MP M&A roles, Renae has been heavily involved in the firm's initiatives around our people, diversity and inclusion and our transformation agenda and these will all continue to be key priorities to her. Prior to her time in management Renae was a telecommunications partner and led the Telstra relationship for many years.
Outgoing CEP Berkeley Cox said:
"I am delighted that Renae has been appointed as my successor. Having worked with Renae for several years I know she has a deep passion for our firm, our clients, and our people. This is an incredibly exciting time for the firm and I wish Renae all the best for the future."
Commenting on her appointment, Renae said:
"I feel very privileged to have been appointed as Chief Executive Partner for the Australian firm. I am fortunate to be appointed into this role while the firm is in a very strong position and am excited for our next phase of growth. I am looking forward to working with Sue to continue building upon our strong foundation, and accelerating and deepening connectivity between the Australian practice and the firm's global network."
Renae will officially commence as CEP on 1 February 2022, with succession for Renae's existing leadership roles to be announced in due course.