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2 partners promoted to energy leads at HSF
International law firm Herbert Smith Freehills has appointed a global sector co-lead partner for its energy practice, as well as a head of energy.
Lauren Croft
Herbert Smith Freehills has bolstered its energy offering with two new promotions, effective from 1 November.
Partner Anthony Patten has been appointed as global sector co-lead partner, energy, and partner Peter Davis has been promoted to head of energy, Australia.
Both new appointments will help secure the firm’s market position in the energy space, according to Asia and Australia executive partner Kristin Stammer.
“We are a leading law firm for energy clients worldwide, and Anthony and Peter’s skills and leadership will help us continue our market position as trusted adviser for our energy clients, including in the energy transition,” she said.
This news comes after the addition of two partners from BigLaw rivals in October, as well as the firm’s appointment of new dispute resolution heads in late August, its appointment of 62 new senior associates back in June, its naming of 10 new executive counsel in late April, its appointment of nine new partners in the same month, its appointment of an Australian as joint managing partner of its global corporate practice in February, and its promotion of four within its alternative legal services practice in January.
With over two decades of international energy experience, Patten specialises in M&A and project development with a strong focus on oil and gas, LNG, and renewable energy projects. He works with some of the world’s leading energy companies and is based in Singapore.
“I am very pleased to be appointed to co-lead the firm’s global energy team alongside London-based partner Lewis McDonald,” he said.
“We support our strong group of leading energy clients as they navigate the challenges of meeting growing energy demand with reliable, affordable and sustainable sources of energy. With over 100 energy partners globally, we are committed as a firm to providing clients with strategic, coordinated and innovative advice across the Herbert Smith Freehills global network.”
In his new role in Sydney, Davis will focus on energy sector priorities for Australia for the firm. He has been with HSF for more than a decade and specialises in major transactions and project development in the energy sector, including infrastructure.
“Our energy practice is a key strength globally, and Australia is no different. The path to net zero is complex, and to navigate that path, our clients need a firm with both global reach and local depth, and high-performing people with the specialist energy skills to advise on all aspects of a transaction,” he said.
“I look forward to working alongside the global team and our leadership in Australia to drive growth and help guide the firm’s strategic direction as we continue to support our clients in the Australian energy sector.”
Lauren Croft
Lauren is a journalist at Lawyers Weekly and graduated with a Bachelor of Journalism from Macleay College. Prior to joining Lawyers Weekly, she worked as a trade journalist for media and travel industry publications and Travel Weekly. Originally born in England, Lauren enjoys trying new bars and restaurants, attending music festivals and travelling. She is also a keen snowboarder and pre-pandemic, spent a season living in a French ski resort.
