The Brief:
Mark McNamara will become Chair of Mallesons from 30 June 2026, succeeding David Friedlander after five years.
The Band 1 private equity partner will steer the firm’s next chapter under its newly independent identity.
Mallesons has named Mark McNamara as Chair, handing the baton from David Friedlander as the firm steps fully into its post-KWM era.
McNamara’s been on the Board since 2024 and has led the firm’s Private Capital practice since 2012.
He's a Band 1-ranked dealmaker with a client roster that includes global PE giants like Blackstone, KKR, EQT, Quadrant and Affinity. He’ll keep leading the practice alongside his new Chair duties.
It’s a pointed choice.
As Mallesons cements its identity as Australia’s leading top-tier independent, McNamara brings the commercial firepower and strategic credibility to back that positioning in market.
Friedlander, who steered the firm through its split from King & Wood Mallesons, isn’t stepping back far. He stays on as a Band 1 M&A partner, continuing to advise on top M&A and ECM transactions.
Outgoing Chair Friedlander said the timing made sense.
“With our transition to Mallesons and the development of our 2030 strategy, it is the perfect time for Mark to takeover. Since joining the Board, he has made a significant contribution to our thinking on strategy and the impact of AI on our business and the profession at large.”
McNamara said he’s ready.
“I am delighted and honoured to be taking over the Chair role. The firm is in a very strong position and there is real momentum as we move forward under the Mallesons brand. Dave has been a remarkable Chair of the firm and has successfully seen us through a period of growth and change. I am very excited to be leading this next phase with our terrific Board and exceptional Management Team.”
The appointment takes effect on 30 June 2026.
Source: Mallesons