One of the country’s first female managing partners has moved to Swaab Attorneys after departing Corrs Chambers Westgarth.

Michelle Harpur was what is understood to be one of Australia’s first female managing partners at the Australian arm of Coudert Brothers before it dissolved in 2005. She then joined Corrs after the break-up of the global firm.

But instead of moving to one of the top-tier firms, Harpur has been scooped by Swaab because, she said, “large firms are finding it increasingly difficult to differentiate themselves in today’s market”.

Harpur joins the firm as partner within the litigation and insolvency teams.

On her move, Harpur said: “I could see that Swaab has an exciting future and can do really great things, working closely with clients at every level to achieve the best strategic and commercial results.”

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Managing partner Fred Swaab, meanwhile, described the appointment as a coup.

“We’re delighted that such a formidable litigator has joined our firm. [Harpur] has vast experience in property and commercial litigation. She has acted on some of the more difficult and significant disputes in this country,” Swaab said.

"The existing strengths of our litigation and insolvency practices can only be enhanced by [her] appointment and we welcome her most warmly to our firm."