Today Mallesons, the top-tier independent law firm from Australia, has announced the appointment of Mark McNamara as Chair, effective 30 June 2026.
Mark succeeds David Friedlander whose term comes to an end after 5 years in the role. David will remain with the firm as a Band 1 M&A partner, continuing to support clients on cutting edge public M&A and ECM transactions.
Commenting on the announcement, current Chair David Friedlander said:
“It has been a joy to lead the Board throughout one of the most transformative periods of the firm’s history. With our transition to Mallesons and the development of our 2030 strategy, it is the perfect time for Mark to takeover. Since joining the Board, he has made a significant contribution to our thinking on strategy and the impact of AI on our business and the profession at large. I am confident he will be an excellent Chair and a strong complement to our world-class management team who will take the firm from strength to strength in this new era.”
Chief Executive Partner Renae Lattey added:
“Mark brings strong market and client credibility, strategic and commercial thinking and a progressive mindset which will no doubt challenge and enrich our thinking and strategic planning around the future of our firm in a world that never stands still.
On behalf of the partners and the Executive Team, I want to thank David for his outstanding leadership over the past 5 years. He has been so invested in the success of our firm and has guided the Board and the partnership through some defining decisions and milestone moments. I am personally very grateful for his support.”
Mark has been on the Mallesons Board since 2024 and has led the firm’s Private Capital practice since 2012. He will remain client-facing and continue to lead the growing Private Capital team as a Band 1 Partner, in addition to his Chair responsibilities.
“I am delighted and honoured to be taking over the Chair role. The firm is in a very strong position and there is real momentum as we move forward under the Mallesons brand. Dave has been a remarkable Chair of the firm and has successfully seen us through a period of growth and change. I am very excited to be leading this next phase with our terrific Board and exceptional Management Team”, said Mark.
