Dentons in New Zealand is pleased to announce that Kate Barton is joining Dentons as its new Global CEO, effective 10 November 2024. Kate joins the firm from EY, where she has had a highly distinguished 35-year career, most recently as Global Vice Chair and CEO, Tax. She will succeed Elliott Portnoy, the founding Global CEO, who has served since the firm’s launch in 2013. 

Hayden Wilson, Global Vice Chair and Chair of Dentons New Zealand, said, “In 12 years, from a standing start, Dentons has become the largest global law firm. The appointment of Kate shows our commitment to being the law firm that helps clients navigate their challenges wherever in the world they are. We continue to grow, and we are looking forward to working with Kate as we help our clients face the future.”

As well as this being an exciting time for the firm, it is also exciting for our clients who will benefit from Kate’s experience and knowledge in leading a complex global organisation and commitment to building relationships which will enable us to continue to meet and exceed our clients’ expectations.

“Dentons has redefined the legal services landscape globally with its pioneering business strategy and client offerings. I am keen to get involved with the firm and excited to work with the New Zealand team to continue to redefine the legal landscape and help our clients achieve success. I will be in New Zealand next February when the Global Board comes to Auckland and look forward to meeting the team and our clients in person.” said new incoming Global CEO, Kate Barton. 

Kate will join Dentons in early September to begin an extensive handover period with Portnoy, and will start her term as Global CEO on November 10, 2024.

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