Slater and Gordon has announced its leadership transition with chief executive John Somerville to hand over the reins to current chief client officer Dina Tutungi.
Mr Somerville, who joined the law firm in 2018, following its rescue from near collapse the previous year by a consortium of hedge funds led by Anchorage Capital Partners, will retire on March 31 next year.
Slater and Gordon ended its life as a listed company in May this year, following Allegro Funds acquiring a controlling stake in a 55c per share offer.
The firm’s share registry included a number of major hedge funds including Anchorage, Bank of America, Metrics Capital Partners and York Capital Management.
Slater and Gordon chair James Mackenzie said Mr Somerville’s leadership through the company’s turnaround phase was “exemplary’’.
“The board and Allegro sincerely thank John for his dedication and achievements throughout a monumental period for Slater and Gordon. We wish him all the best for his well-deserved retirement,” Mr MacKenzie said.
Incoming chief executive Ms Tutungi said the new ownership structure brought with it opportunity.
“I am excited that our new ownership structure brings with it renewed investment in our people, legal processes and clients,’’ she said. “It will provide our people with enhanced career opportunities and allow our most senior lawyers the opportunity to acquire meaningful equity in the organisation. I look forward to continuing to reshape the law and legal process to deliver truly client-centred outcomes.’’
Ms Tutungi has been with Slater and Gordon for almost 23 years, holding roles including head of personal injury law, general manager and state practice group leader.
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