Perth lawyer takes global Ashurst role

Law firm Ashurst has announced key appointments and a new management structure as it moves closer to full financial integration of its Australian and international practices.

Perth-based lawyer Geoff Gishubl has been named as co-head of the group's global energy, resources and real estate division, in collaboration with London-based Mark Elsey.

This is one of four global divisions that Ashurst is establishing, with each jointly led by a partner in Australia and Europe. 

Ashurst also plans to establish a 14-person global board, with three elected partners coming from the Australian practice. In addition, the chairman and vice chairman will come from different legacy firms.

Current Ashurst LLP managing partner James Collis was named global managing partner, while incumbent Ashurst Australia managing partner John Carrington will lead the Australian operations.

The current Ashurst structure was created in 2011, when UK-based Ashurst linked with Australian firm Blake Dawson.

Ashurst Australia chair Mary Padbury said: "these announcements are a significant step along the path to complete financial integration which
we started when we first announced our intention to merge in 2011".

"We are already very much operating as one firm and the new governance and management structure we are putting in place
will help maximise the benefits of integration."

The restructuring following the merger is expected to be completed early next year.