Herbert Smith Freehills Appoints Matt FitzGerald as Joint Managing Partner Of Global Corporate Practice

Herbert Smith Freehills Appoints Matt FitzGerald as Joint Managing Partner Of Global Corporate Practice

He succeeds Carolyn Pugsley, who will return to full-time practice after four years

International law firm Herbert Smith Freehills has appointed Matt FitzGerald as a joint managing partner for global corporate practice and the Australia regional head of practice, effective from 1 May.

Brisbane-based Matt, who has been a partner since 2009, will work with London, UK-based corporate managing partner Mike Flockhart.

He will be responsible for leading the strategic direction of the corporate practice across the firm’s network of offices.

Matt specializes in M&A in financial services and private equity, advising listed and private companies and financial sponsors on M&A, strategic alliances, and joint ventures.

He has held various leadership roles in the firm, including office managing partner for the Brisbane office and deputizing as regional head of practice for Pugsley during her parental leave period.

Ian Cox, the Executive Partner of practices at Herbert Smith Freehills, said that FitzGerald’s leadership, together with Flockhart and regional heads of practice Alberto Frasquet and Andy Blacoe, will form a strong team.

He added, “They will build on the corporate group's success, further developing our market-leading global practice and driving forward the approach needed to deliver our firm’s Ambition 2025 strategy.”

Speaking about FitzGerald, he expressed, “With his specific focus on Australia, FitzGerald will lead our corporate team to help continue to grow our reputation as the go-to law firm for the biggest M&A deals, while supporting the growing demand in mid-market deals across the Asia-Pacific.”

While thanking Pugsley for her immense contribution, Cox stated, “She has entrenched our market-leading position, and we look forward to keep building on the success of the corporate practice as she returns to full-time legal practice."

FitzGerald expressed, "I am excited to take on the critical role and lead this fantastic market-leading team. I look forward to working closely with Flockhart and my colleagues as we achieve the next stage of our strategic plan and continue to help deliver outstanding results for our clients."