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National law firm Maddocks has tapped a seasoned partner with more than two decades of experience as its next chief executive officer.
Maddocks has appointed veteran partner Paul Woods (pictured) as its new chief executive officer, with the leadership transition to take effect on 1 July 2026.
Joining the national firm in 2005, Woods has built a 20-year tenure as a partner within the firm’s Melbourne-based construction and projects practice.
Woods will take over from David Newman as CEO, bringing an end to Newman’s six-year tenure in the firm’s top leadership role.
During his tenure, Maddocks credited Newman with having “driven sustained firm growth, strengthened employee engagement, and set a clear and disciplined strategic direction” for the firm.
The national firm revealed that the two leaders have spent the past few months working in close collaboration to “ensure a smooth transition” as Maddocks enters its next phase of growth.
Over those 20 years, Woods has held several leadership positions, including serving on the board and acting as partnership chair between 2023 and 2025.
Outlining his vision for the firm, Woods shared that his focus as CEO will centre on maintaining disciplined growth, while strengthening client relationships and investing in the firm’s people.
Mark Henry, partnership chair at Maddocks, described Woods as a standout leader with deep institutional knowledge and strong strategic insight, adding that the board is confident he is well positioned to guide the firm through its next stage of growth.
“Paul is an outstanding leader who brings deep knowledge of Maddocks, strong strategic judgement and a genuine commitment to our people, clients and future,” Henry said.
“The board is confident he is the right person to lead the firm into its next phase of growth and build on the strong foundation already in place.”
Speaking about his new role, Woods shared that he was honoured to step into the position, setting out an ambition for Maddocks to be recognised as Australia’s premier independent national law firm and a standout alternative to the BigLaw firms.
“I am honoured to lead Maddocks into its next chapter,” Woods said.
“My vision is for Maddocks to be widely regarded as Australia’s best national, independent law firm – the high-quality alternative to the ‘big eight’ firms – by delivering exceptional service to our clients, fostering a strong culture, and driving disciplined growth.”
