As Chief Executive of MinterEllisonRuddWatts, Andrew is responsible for the overall leadership of the firm. Together with the Board, Andrew drives the firm’s strategy and on-going growth, while ensuring it remains true to its values-based culture.
Andrew looks after all aspects of the firm’s business and professional responsibilities including client engagement, overall partner and staff management, and leadership of the senior management team.
A former commercial lawyer and partner specialising in intellectual property and technology, Andrew has a deep understanding of the law and how top tier law firms operate. Moving into the role of Chief Executive at another top tier law firm further developed his leadership style and cemented what is needed to become a trusted legal adviser.
Using his legal, technology and leadership expertise, he strives for excellence and innovation in how MinterEllisonRuddWatts operates, both as an employer and adviser. He is enthusiastic about creating opportunities to help our clients succeed and providing the best legal solutions and commercial advice.
Known for his energetic and positive approach, Andrew is instrumental in delivering against the firm’s vision, purpose and values. He recognises that, ultimately, we are only as good as our people.
Andrew considers balance in everything he does: balancing individuality with the importance of collaboration; balancing excellence and rigour in our legal advice with our clients’ need for commerciality. As a strong communicator, he also appreciates the importance of listening to deliver workable solutions.
Andrew is passionate about the future. He enjoys a challenge and is not only open to what the future can hold but how MinterEllisonRuddWatts can help shape it.
He is part of Global Women’s group of Champions for Change, dedicated to accelerating inclusivity and diversity in both the legal sector and the wider business community. Andrew also actively promotes sustainability initiatives within the firm and wider community. He has led significant conservation projects for the NEXT Foundation, is a founding trustee of The Education Hub and is the Executive Chair of the Rotoroa Island Trust, which is a heritage, conservation and tourism sanctuary in the Hauraki Gulf in Auckland.
Affiliations
- Council Member, New Zealand China Council
- Executive Chair, Rotoroa Island Trust
- Member, New Zealand Change Makers, Thomson Reuters
- Member, Education Kaihautu, NEXT Foundation
- Member, CEO Advisory Group, Business New Zealand
- Champion for Change, Global Women
- Founding Trustee, The Education Hub