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HFW adds construction partner
Global law firm HFW has bolstered its Australia-based construction practice with the hiring of a partner for its Melbourne office.
Jerome Doraisamy
Michael Debney (pictured) has joined HFW from global rival Herbert Smith Freehills, and brings over 10 years of practice experience in Australia, the UK and the Middle East.
Speaking about the appointment, HFW Australia managing partner Gavin Vallely said that the expansion of the firm’s construction practice is a “key element” of its growth strategy in the country.
“Michael joins a team of more than 30 lawyers in Australia specialising in construction and projects, and we will actively pursue opportunities to further strengthen our offering to clients in this sector, as part of our ambitious plans for continued growth across our sectors and services in Australia,” he said.
Firm global head of construction Carolyn Chudleigh added: “Michael’s experience in both front- and back-end construction, as well as on large scale projects, is second-to-none, and his expertise and focus on major contractors is a great complement to our existing construction practice across Australia.
“In particular, his arrival really strengthens our front-end construction offering in Australia and Asia-Pacific, where we see a lot of demand from clients across a wide range of industries, including road, rail and port infrastructure, energy and renewable infrastructure, and general commercial construction.”
Mr Debney noted: “HFW’s globally-recognised construction industry expertise is perfectly aligned with my practice and there are real opportunities for some exciting synergies. I am very excited about joining the HFW team and contributing to the growth of the practice in the region.”
Jerome Doraisamy
Jerome Doraisamy is the managing editor of Lawyers Weekly and HR Leader. He is also the author of The Wellness Doctrines book series, an admitted solicitor in New South Wales, and a board director of the Minds Count Foundation.
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