Wynn Williams promotes two new Partners

Wynn Williams is delighted to announce the promotion of Kathryn Evans and Tom Heard to the Firm’s partnership.

Kathryn is an employment specialist who is regarded for her ability to defend complex claims. She has significant expertise working with the in-house legal and HR teams of All-of-Government clients, local authorities and large corporates.

Tom is highly regarded for his expertise in complex and high-value domestic and international corporate matters, particularly mergers and acquisitions and private equity investments, and for his pragmatic commercial advice.

Managing Partner Ash Hill has nothing but praise for the Firm’s two newest Partners: “We are so pleased to have Kathryn and Tom join the partnership, each bringing a unique set of skills with them that will strengthen the partnership and further enhance our reputation as a Firm of forward-thinking and solutions-focused lawyers.

“Kathryn is technically excellent, handling effortlessly both contentious and non-contentious employment law matters. She has also played an instrumental leadership role in the Firm’s national employment team over the past few years, emphasising the Partner-level skillset she possesses.

“Tom’s reputation as an excellent lawyer means that he is trusted by clients and colleagues alike. Beyond his technical skills, we value the developing mentorship role he plays within the Corporate team.”

Kathryn is based in the Firm’s Ōtautahi Christchurch office, while Tom is in the Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland office.

Their appointment, combined with the merger of SBM Legal, bring the Firm’s partnership number to 28, with a staff of over 150. It also follows the promotion in April 2025 of 15 lawyers to Special Counsel, Senior Associate and Associate positions.