According to the firm, Mr Manche wanted to join Russell Kennedy due to its “highly regarded and progressive” nature, but did not want it to come at the expense of his young, Geelong-based family.

In a move to accommodate Mr Manche and his family, the firm has rolled out the new Geelong office which allows Mr Manche to operate out of his home base, while being equipped with the technology required to stay connected with the Melbourne office.

According to Russell Kennedy principal Rohan Harris, the new office allows Mr Manche and other Russell Kennedy staff to operate out of Geelong, while further enhancing their ability to service existing Geelong clients.

Mr Harris noted that the new office also allows Mr Manche to maintain his networks and connections to the local community, while avoiding the need to travel to and from Melbourne everyday.

“This approach has made me feel absolutely supported and incredibly valued by Russell Kennedy from day one, and I am proud to work at a firm which recognises the importance of work/life balance, readily embraces technology and is truly committed to providing a flexible and supportive work environment for both male and female staff members,” Mr Manche said.

Mr Manche joined Russell Kennedy late last year from Harwood Andrews. He specialises in all aspects of estate planning, probate and estate administration, estate litigation, superannuation complaints and guardianship, and administration and capacity issues.