Global law firm K&L Gates has poached the Brisbane managing partner from a rival BigLaw firm to bolster its energy, infrastructure and resourcing practice in the state.
K&L Gates has continued to expand its energy, infrastructure, and resources practice in Brisbane with the addition of a new partner, who was formerly the Brisbane office managing partner and co-head of the Australian energy team at global law firm Baker McKenzie.
Tanya Denning brings more than 20 years of experience to the firm and has advised key industry participants on headline energy and resources M&A deals and projects across the region, with specific focus on assisting those investing, developing, and operating in energy generation, supply and offtake, storage, and transport.
This news comes after the addition of a partner from rival global law firm White & Case last month, a partner from Norton Rose Fulbright in February, and the firm’s hiring of an IP partner from Corrs Chambers Westgarth in January.
Denning brings a deep understanding of the energy regulatory regimes in Australia, something John Crossley, a leader of the firm’s global energy, infrastructure, and resources practice, said would be especially valuable for K&L Gates clients.
“Tanya is an excellent addition to our regional and global energy practice, bringing decades of experience advising industry leaders on landmark deals,” he said.
“Her deep understanding of the energy regulatory regimes in Australia builds on the firm’s strategic energy sector offerings. We’re excited to welcome her to the firm.”
The appointment, according to K&L Gates Australia regional managing partner Jason Opperman, comes as the energy market in Australia continues to remain strong throughout this year.
“We are thrilled to welcome Tanya to the firm. Her arrival is perfectly timed with deal activity in Australia’s energy sector expected to remain strong for 2025, enhanced by advances in energy storage technology and consolidation among oil and gas participants,” he said.
“The availability of rich natural resources will continue to attract foreign direct investment into Australia, and Tanya’s technical knowledge, extensive networks, and deep understanding of the market dynamics will be an invaluable asset for our energy clients in Australia and beyond.”
Lauren is a journalist at Lawyers Weekly and graduated with a Bachelor of Journalism from Macleay College. Prior to joining Lawyers Weekly, she worked as a trade journalist for media and travel industry publications and Travel Weekly. Originally born in England, Lauren enjoys trying new bars and restaurants, attending music festivals and travelling. She is also a keen snowboarder and pre-pandemic, spent a season living in a French ski resort.