Law Council announces appointment of new CEO
3 June 2016
The Law Council of Australia has proudly announced the appointment of Mr Jonathan Smithers as its new Chief Executive Officer.
The appointment of Mr Smithers, who currently serves as the President of the Law Society of England and Wales, comes after a long global search for a suitable candidate to guide the Law Council through a dynamic and exciting period for the legal profession.
Mr Smithers has served on the Executive of the Law Society of England and Wales since 2013, and will conclude his current term as President in July.
Earlier in his career, Mr Smithers was appointed to lead CooperBurnett despite his relative youth during a challenging period in the 1990s UK recession.
Law Council of Australia President Stuart Clark AM said Mr Smithers would bring a wealth of talent and experience to the role.
“I know I speak for the entire Law Council Executive when I say we are extremely excited to have secured the services of an outstanding candidate in Jonathan Smithers,” Mr Clark said.
“Jonathan has established a reputation throughout his career as being both courageous and strategically sound. We know he enjoys taking on a challenge and there are always a number to tackle on behalf of the Australian legal profession.
“We believe Jonathan’s current experience as President of the Law Society of England and Wales will bring both a new perspective and international experience to the Law Council of Australia.
“From our discussions with Jonathan we know he understands the critical importance of providing support for our Constituent Bodies and enhancing the reputation of the profession.
“We believe his insight and ability will be a real asset across our full gamut of work, whether that’s campaigning for adequate legal aid funding, developing opportunities for lawyers in foreign markets, or reducing the regulatory burden on legal professionals.”
Mr Smithers said he was greatly looking forward to taking on his new role.
“Moving to Australia is something I have obviously thought long and hard about, but the lure of a fresh set of issues to tackle was an opportunity too good to ignore,” Mr Smithers said.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed the strategic challenges and delivery aspects of my current role as President of the Law Society of England and Wales, and I’m thrilled to have secured a new position that offers another chance to use the skills and experience I have gained.
“The Law Council of Australia is a vital organisation with an excellent international reputation. I’m very much looking forward to rolling up my sleeves,” Mr Smithers said.
Media contacts:
Patrick Pantano: Public Affairs
P. 02 6246 3715 E. Patrick.Pantano@lawcouncil.au
Anil Lambert: Media
P. 0416 426 722 E. Anil@hortonadvisory.com.au
Last Updated on 23/11/2017