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Magic circle firm, Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF), has appointed Rebecca Maslen-Stannage as its new senior partner and chair of its global council. She is the first female to be elected to the role at HSF. 

Maslen-Stannage will take up the position on 1 May 2021 and serve for a four-year term – succeeding James Palmer, who has spent six years in the role and will return to fulltime practice. 

Sydney-based Maslen-Stannage has practised as a corporate lawyer with the firm since 1994 and advises clients in private and public M&A, equity capital markets and corporate governance. She will continue practising during her tenure as senior partner and chair.

Outgoing chair Palmer commented: “I share the view of our partners that Rebecca will be an outstanding chair and senior partner of the firm. She has exceptional experience, thinks deeply and strategically about issues and is incredibly respected both inside the firm and by clients and others outside.”

Maslen-Stannage said she is “proud of our incredible, diverse talent and positive culture and the fact that we are trusted by clients to advise on an impressive array of matters around the world”. 

HSF chief executive office Justin D’Agostino described her as a "uniquely qualified… dynamic and inspirational leader.”