Transformation continues with new CEO

Russell McVeagh Chair, Malcolm Crotty, today said the appointment of Jo Avenell to the role of Chief Executive was a pivotal moment in the firm’s continued transformation. Jo Avenell’s appointment is effective on 23 October.

"This is a critically important appointment for our firm as we continue on our journey to building a safe, inclusive and people-focused culture that will underpin our future success.

"We have acknowledged that we must lead behavioural and cultural change across our firm and we’re confident in Jo's abilities to lead and support us in achieving this.

"The Board and partners are well into implementing all of the recommendations following Dame Margaret Bazley's review of the firm released in July. We have charged ourselves with building a culture and a firm that reflects the values and aspirations of our people and clients.

"Jo is a strong and accomplished executive who is hugely respected, and who will inspire confidence, help overcome obstacles, and lead by example. Russell McVeagh will benefit from Jo's proven track-record delivering significant cultural change across large organisations," said Mr Crotty.

In July, the firm announced its plans to begin the search for a new Chief Executive with the skills needed to lead transformational change and build a people-focused culture. Jo’s appointment is a result of an extensive executive search both internationally and locally.

With a background in financial services, professional services, and postal and logistic services, Jo was most recently on the Executive Team at New Zealand Post where she led the organisational and cultural transformation programme. She is a current Board member of Global Women.

The firm farewells outgoing CEO Gary McDiarmid, who announced his planned retirement from the firm in June last year.

"Gary has helped lead the firm through a period of huge change in the legal profession. We thank Gary for his significant contribution of over 20 years as CEO," said Mr Crotty.

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