Global firm Dentons Kensington Swan continues to lead in its commitment to diversity with new elections to its Board in New Zealand. The firm’s Board now consists of 60% female representation.

Partners Jenni Rutter and Matthew Ockleston join Catriona Grover, Hayley Miller and firm Chair Hayden Wilson on the firm’s Board.

Hayden Wilson says, “It’s important that our firm and our Board reflects the diversity of our clients and our communities. Dentons is committed to diversity and inclusion and that has to begin at the top.”

Known for her ability to explain complex strategies and technical details in a way that is easy to understand, Jenni Rutter looks after a number of the firm’s key clients and regularly features in high profile IP disputes. She recently helped shut down an attempt by a local businessman to trade mark “Aunty Helen”, the nickname given to former Prime Minister Helen Clark. Acting on behalf of Clark, Jenni led the team that set a new legal precedent in New Zealand trade mark law.

With over 20 years’ experience in infrastructure projects and public law, Matthew Ockleston has acted for Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency on almost every major State Highway project in the North Island since 2004. Matthew is highly experienced and respected for Public Works Act matters and has been recognised as the Most Client Focused Lawyer at the 2018 Australian Financial Review Client Choice Awards, recognising his commitment to providing an unbeatable client experience.

Dentons Kensington Swan has previously been recognised as a ‘gender leader’ with 41% of partners being female. The firm continues to build on its established commitment to gender diversity and seeks to remove the traditional barriers to women reaching senior levels.

The firm’s governance documents include provisions ensuring that at any one time there are a minimum of two female and two male Board members.

Dentons Kensington Swan CEO Charles Spillane says, “ In order to attract, retain and support talented women, we continue to adopt initiatives to build a diverse skill-set within our firm.”

About Dentons

Across over 80 countries, Dentons helps you grow, protect, operate and finance your organization by providing uniquely global and deeply local legal solutions. Polycentric, purpose-driven and committed to inclusion, diversity, equity and sustainability, we focus on what matters most to you. www.dentons.com