Madeleine Kelly has assumed her duties as managing partner of IP specialist firm FB Rice, marking a new chapter in the firm’s 75-year history.
Kelly took over from former managing partner, Dr Brett Lunn, who was in the role for the past 16 years. He remained at the firm as a registered patent attorney.
Earlier this year, Lawyers Weekly reported that Lunn was set to pass on the torch at the start of July, to be followed by a handover period for its new leader.
Kelly said: “I’ve been shadowing Brett since February, so it hasn’t felt abrupt at all.
“He has been so thoughtful, generous with his time and expertise, and always there to help.”
“The management team and the wider firm have also been incredibly supportive,” she said.
Kelly outlined her wide suite of knowledge in electronics and computing, along with specialisations in software such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics, signal processing along with various other forms of ICT.
She has been a partner of the firm for over eight years, served on the executive board for the past six, and now sits within FB Rice’s engineering and computing team.
The firm expressed an aim for greater focus on artificial intelligence in the IP law field, providing room for Kelly to leverage her experience in computing and robotics in this new opportunity to innovate.
She said: “AI touches every aspect of our business including our people, our clients, our systems, and our processes.”
“The reality is AI will free us up to deliver better service to our clients, but we also have a responsibility to upskill our people and manage both the risks and the opportunities,” she added.
A few months ago, the firm established its IP Advisory which was aimed at providing support to their clients, to cover all areas of technology with their team of IP, Search and R&D tax specialists.
“Clients had been asking for deeper strategic advice and the IP Advisory service is a natural extension of what we do. These developments ensure FB Rice continues to deliver outstanding results in a rapidly changing innovation economy,” Kelly said.
She also noted: “Clients tell us they can feel the difference when they work with FB Rice, and it’s not just one or two attorneys, it’s across the board.”
“That culture of excellence in service is embedded in FB Rice and it will remain central to our success,” she said.
Carlos Tse is a graduate journalist writing for Accountants Daily, HR Leader, Lawyers Weekly.
