Global law firm A&O Shearman has appointed Peter McDonald as co-managing partner for Australia, succeeding Jason Denisenko who has held the role since 2013.
Based in Sydney, McDonald will lead alongside Perth-based David Jenaway and Denisenko will remain at the firm as a partner in the financial services regulatory practice.
McDonald said he would focus on strengthening certain service areas experiencing strong client demand.
“We will continue investing in the capabilities clients need most, including energy security and transition, infrastructure, private capital, technology and financial services. These areas are being shaped by significant policy, regulatory and market change, creating demand for integrated advice that combines deep local knowledge with the significant strength of our global network,” McDonald told Asia Business Law Journal.
During the next 12 months, he said the priority would be ensuring the firm was well positioned to support clients navigating increasingly complex challenges.
“We have invested wisely in our Australian platform and built an outstanding bench of partners and lawyers, which positions us well to help clients navigate increasingly complex challenges by drawing on both our local expertise and global capability,” said McDonald, who also leads the competition team across the APAC.
Providing a longer-term outlook, McDonald said he aimed to further strengthen the firm’s market position and its ability to support clients amid evolving geopolitical dynamics.
“Our ambition is for A&O Shearman to be widely recognised as the leading global law firm in Australia, known for exceptional talent, a strong and collaborative culture, and outstanding client service. When my term concludes, I would like the firm to be stronger, more connected and even better positioned to help clients navigate the issues shaping the global economy,” he said.
McDonald specialises in competition, consumer and regulatory matters, and advises clients on merger clearances, joint ventures, access to infrastructure and enforcement responses.
