Media Release: Clayton Utz announces next Chief Executive Partner to lead the firm from 1 July 2020

Sydney, 11 December 2019: The Board of Clayton Utz has today announced the appointment of Bruce Cooper to succeed Rob Cutler as the firm's next Chief Executive Partner, effective 1 July 2020.  The appointment is for a three-year term.

Bruce joined Clayton Utz in 2010 as a partner from Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, having practised largely in project finance throughout Asia for nearly two decades, and between 2007 and 2010 was the Head of Freshfields' Asian finance group.  He was a Board member of Clayton Utz in 2013, and was appointed in 2014 as one of the firm's two inaugural Deputy Chief Executive Partners, with a focus on strengthening the firm's clients and markets initiatives, and guiding the firm's international strategy.

Clayton Utz Board Chair Steve O'Reilly said Bruce's appointment reflected his focus on clients and our people as being at the centre of the firm's success.

"Bruce is well-positioned to lead Clayton Utz into its next stage of growth in what continues to be a competitive legal market.  Over the past few years, he has been at the forefront of initiatives to embed a true client service culture within the firm, has strengthened our international relationships which has led to strong revenue growth, and introduced truly unique and engaging experiences for our people and clients such as the Clayton Utz Art Partnership. We're confident in Bruce's ability to strengthen further Clayton Utz's reputation and market position through his vision."

On behalf of the Board, Steve acknowledges Rob Cutler's leadership and contribution.  "The Board thanks Rob for guiding the firm successfully through its past five and half years of strong growth in ever-changing market conditions.  He has been an exceptional leader who we know will continue his able contribution to the firm's success when his term as CEP ends on 30 June."