HWL Ebsworth has today announced that it has formalised its future leadership and management structure following the tragic passing of Managing Partner Juan Martinez in March.

The firm has decided that the existing Managing Partner model be replaced by a Board, reflecting the growth of the practice which requires an evolved governance structure.

The management structure of the firm will not change in function but Chief Strategy Officer Russell Mailler will be made Chief Executive Partner (CEP), and Chief Operations Officer Kris Hopkins will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

The review of the firm’s leadership structure was led by an internal working group with input considered from the National and State Practice Group Heads and the Partners of the firm.

“Juan Martinez’s leadership drove the growth of the firm for nearly three decades, establishing the firm’s flat management structure and agile processes which have enabled exceptional success,” CEP Russell Mailler said.

“Our new leadership structure preserves the strengths of our nimble management and operations, while also establishing a governance model that reflects and draws on the skills, expertise, and perspectives of our Partners.”

CEO Kris Hopkins added the new structure recognises the firm is a partnership of business owners who play an active role in the business.

“Our Board will enable greater engagement with Partners, provide stability and consistency of governance, and will deliver on our commitment to diversity,” he said.

“We have explored best practice from the corporate sector, reflecting the fact our clients expect that best management practices will be delivered by the people who advise them.”

HWL Ebsworth will now begin planning for an initial Board election with a proposed start date of 1 July.