A&O Shearman strengthens M&A practice with senior Sydney hire

Phil brings extensive experience advising on public and private M&A, shareholder activism, and corporate governance. His practice spans multiple sectors, with particular expertise in energy, digital infrastructure, retail, utilities, real estate, insurance, manufacturing, and gaming. He advises large ASX-listed companies as well as European and U.S.-based multinationals. 

Phil will co-lead the Australian Corporate and M&A team alongside Michael Parshall. 

Peter McDonald, A&O Shearman’s co-managing partner of Australia, said: “Phil's appointment is a key step in the continued build-out of our corporate practice in Australia. Following Clayton James's announcement earlier this year, Phil brings the seniority, market recognition, and leadership to further grow our M&A team in Australia. His deep client relationships and international outlook make him an outstanding fit for our firm.” 

David Broadley, global co-head of M&A, added: “Phil is one of the most respected M&A practitioners in Australia, and his arrival is a clear statement of our ambition in one of Asia-Pacific's largest and most active M&A markets. As cross-border activity into and out of Australia continues to grow, Phil's standing with ASX-listed corporates and the investment banking community adds significant strength to our practice and deepens our ability to deliver for clients on their most significant and complex transactions.” 

Phil joins A&O Shearman from Ashurst Perkins Coie where he served as member of the global Board, global co-head of Corporate and head of the Australia region. 

Phil's arrival follows the appointment of M&A and private equity partner Clayton James in Sydney, announced in February and marks the latest step in a sustained investment to expand the firm's corporate and M&A capability in Australia. 

Phil’s addition is the latest step in A&O Shearman's investment in talent across multiple practice areas in Australia. In the last 18 months, the firm has promoted Jackson Allen (energy, natural resources, and infrastructure, Perth), Jackie Donald (M&A, Perth), and Simone Lowes (M&A, Sydney) as well as welcoming a series of lateral hires that together further build out its capabilities: Clayton James (M&A, Sydney), Dannelle Howley (real estate, Sydney), Catherine Pedler (litigation, Perth), Lisa Koch (energy, natural resources and infrastructure, Perth), and Amy Middlebrook (litigation, Sydney).