National plaintiff firm Slater & Gordon has appointed the former deputy premier of Victoria as its new independent chair and independent director.
James Merlino is set to be the new chair of Slater & Gordon, succeeding James MacKenzie AO, who stepped down from the role earlier this week, but will remain on the board until February.
Merlino, who is currently the chair of Rest, brings “extensive” private and public sector leadership and governance experience to the national firm, most notably two decades in Victorian State Parliament, including serving as deputy premier to Daniel Andrews between 2014 and 2022, and holding various ministerial portfolios.
MacKenzie has recently commenced a new role as senior adviser to Allegro Funds, which acquired Slater & Gordon in 2023.
Slater & Gordon board director and Allegro partner Johan Krynauw said: “James Merlino is an outstanding appointment for Slater & Gordon. His leadership and governance experience and deep commitment to the community make him incredibly well placed to guide the firm through its next phase.
“I also want to thank James MacKenzie for his exceptional contribution to the firm during a major period of transformation”
“With the firm now stronger than ever, this is the right moment to hand over to the next generation of board leadership, and we’re delighted that someone of James Merlino’s calibre is stepping into the role.”
Merlino said: “Slater & Gordon has always stood up for people who need a powerful advocate in their corner. I’m delighted to join at a time when the firm is delivering strong outcomes for its clients, investing in innovation, and expanding its national footprint.
“The opportunity to help guide the next phase of growth – while maintaining Slater & Gordon’s commitment to access to justice – is an exciting one. I look forward to working with the board, CEO Dina Tutungi, and the entire team.”
MacKenzie said the firm could not be in better hands: “It has been a privilege to lead Slater & Gordon through a period of significant transformation. The firm is performing strongly, and James Merlino brings exactly the right experience and values to support its next chapter.”
Jerome Doraisamy is the managing editor of professional services (including Lawyers Weekly, HR Leader, Accountants Daily, and Accounting Times). He is also the author of The Wellness Doctrines book series, an admitted solicitor in New South Wales, and a board director of the Minds Count Foundation.
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