Mallesons has appointed the 31-year-old Lingard as a partner in its Perth office, reflecting his track record as an emerging market leader.

Part of the M&A team, Lingard has experience in energy and resources, major projects, electricity and gas and acts for Australia's largest resources and energy companies including BHP Billiton, Synergy and TRUenergy.

The firm said today that Lingard has led a number of high profile transactions including Synergy’s wholesale energy procurement programs, the establishment of the Western Australian Electricity Market, preparing documentation for large commercial projects and acting on the sale of a number of major national infrastructure assets.

Partner in Charge of the firm's Perth office, Beau Deleuil, said: “[Lingard’s] appointment as a partner reflects the outstanding contribution he has made to Mallesons’ energy & resources practice and the regard in which he is held by clients.

Lingard makes an impact with clients, said Deleuil.

Lingard said of his recent promotion: "I am very grateful for this opportunity. Mallesons' commitment to M&A and the energy and resources sectors and to our clients in those sectors is crucial to the firm's ongoing success and I am very pleased to be a part of this focus".

Paul Lingard’s promotion is effective from today.