He has worked at the firm for more than 12 years, Macpherson Kelley noted in a statement, and has “played a pivotal role” in establishing the firm’s M&A team as an extremely skilled and high-quality unit.

“His exceptional legal skills, work ethic and strategic commercial approach have consistently earned the trust of clients and has impressed both referrers and advisors,” the firm proclaimed.

Elsewhere, Amelia Santilli was elevated to senior associate, and Christina Zhang, Caitlyn Wessels, Samantha Tan, and Damien Quick were all made associates at the firm.

The news follows the firm’s addition of a special counsel from Maddocks as a new principal in September, its naming of a new chief people office in mid-August, its promotion of 13 lawyers to more senior roles and hiring of a special counsel in early July, and its addition of a principal and special counsel in mid-April.

The promotions were effective as of 1 January.

Speaking about the elevation of Mr McLaughlin, Macpherson Kelley national managing principal Grant Guenther said: “Promoting an individual to principal lawyer is a big deal at Macpherson Kelley. James is an exceptional lawyer and has made an invaluable contribution to the firm and our clients.

“We are pleased to celebrate this significant milestone with him and our other lawyers who have been promoted in this round.”

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“These well-deserved promotions reflect Macpherson Kelley’s commitment to recognising and nurturing talent within the firm,” Mr Guenther continued.

“We are deeply committed to providing career pathways for all Macpherson Kelley staff, so it’s always pleasing to see the professional growth of our team members.”