“A further boost” for the firm is the internal promotion of Liana Witt to special counsel, effective from the beginning of next month.

Having worked at Novartis for more than a decade, Ms Jones has overseen a series of “high-profile transformational deals”, according to Gilbert + Tobin, including the GSK and Lilly merger clearances and the recent sale of its Sandoz division’s dermatology business and generic assets to Aurobindo.

She has previously also held a senior associate role with Allen & Overy in Brussels, and was a senior investigator at the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, a statement said.

“I’m excited to join Gilbert + Tobin, which has a strong reputation in competition law and a great team that has a culture of collaboration, innovation, performance and client service,” Ms Jones said.

“I’m also impressed by Gilbert + Tobin’s high proportion of female partners and a commitment to good corporate citizenship.”

Head of the competition and regulation practice Luke Woodward said they are “delighted to welcome Susan, who will be a great fit for the firm”.

“The appointment will further enhance the competition group and, in particular, the Melbourne team,” he noted.

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“Susan’s expertise in the health and life sciences sector, building on the firm’s strong expertise and experience in this strategically important sector, will contribute significantly to the group’s reputation in high-stakes competition and regulation matters,” Mr Woodward continued.

Internally, Liana Witt’s work has seen her act for Pfizer, Sanofi and Servier, as well as representative body Medicines Australia, Gilbert + Tobin highlighted alongside her promotion announcement.

She has advised clients on all aspects of competition and consumer protection law, and according to the firm, has “particular expertise” advising clients in relation to regulatory investigations and enforcement, supply and distribution arrangements, marketing and pricing strategies, mergers, acquisitions and joint ventures.

Ms Witt’s promotion to special counsel “builds on an enviable collection of leading talent and technical expertise”, Mr Woodward commented.

“The group aims to foster a culture that recognises excellence in all facets,” he remarked, noting that the new hire and promotion “rounds up a great month for the team” after Elizabeth Avery was recognised as the Competition, Trade and Regulation Partner of the Year at the recent Lawyers Weekly Partner of the Year Awards. 

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