Slater & Gordon managing director Andrew Grech has beaten some tough competition to take out the Phoenix Business Solutions Managing Partner of the Year Award at the 2011 Lawyers Weekly Awards, sponsored by Bentley Motors, at a gala ceremony held at the Sydney Opera House on Thursday night.

Grech was recognised for the success he has brought to Slater & Gordon in his 11 years as the company's leader, narrowly beating Corrs Chambers Westgarth managing partner John Denton, who was highly commended for the second year in a row.

In 2010 Denton was highly commended, along with Henry Davis York managing partner Sharon Cook, for his five-year firm growth strategy and his commitment to flexible work options.

This year it was a very close call for the judges, who described Grech and Denton as "truly outstanding leaders".

Since 2000, Grech has managed to increase Slater & Gordon's share in the personal injury market from between 12 and 15 per cent to almost 25 per cent nationwide, directing the expansion of its office network across seven jurisdictions and 12 specialised practice areas. More recently, he oversaw the firm's acquisition of Keddies and Trilby Misso - the two largest acquisitions the company has undertaken to date.

Impressed by his ability to fuel the firm's growth, the judges also highlighted Grech's strong focus on social contribution and staff engagement.

Grech's and Denton's achievements were recognised amongst an impressive list of finalists, which included Fox Tucker managing partner Joseph De Ruvo, Wotton + Kearney managing partner David Kearney, Mallesons Stephen Jaques chief executive partner Robert Milliner and Clifford Chance Sydney managing partner Mark Pistilli.

Read more about the achievements of the 2011 Managing Partner finalists

>> Meet the 2011 Lawyers Weekly Awards Finalists: Managing Partner of the Year

Read the full details of each of the winners & finalists for each award:

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