Australian law firm Addisons has appointed Partner Robert Kerr as its new Managing Partner from 1 January 2026.
Robert joined Addisons in 2015 and was appointed to the partnership in 2018, after a long period at a top-tier Australian law firm. He is a respected legal adviser and deal-maker and will maintain his M&A and corporate practice while he serves as Managing Partner.
Robert is looking forward to leading the Sydney-based firm, which is one of Australia’s longest enduring independent legal partnerships, “For almost 150 years Addisons has been evolving and punching well above its weight – we are a full-service firm but remain committed to our smaller size, with 24 partners and 60 lawyers. Unlike many law firms, we have not chased growth in scale but have remained focused on maintaining the highest quality throughout the firm – in our legal work and in our personal, partner-led service delivery. Our teams are highly regarded and specialise in all key service lines including corporate M&A, competition, commercial law, litigation and insolvency, environment and planning, construction, property, IP, employment, media and gaming law. We’re also very proud to have 50% female equity partners.”
“Many of our clients are very longstanding, and many are iconic Australian and international businesses. Those who know Addisons know it to be a modern full-service law firm with deep sector expertise that delivers premium quality and exceptional value. Addisons’ advice is commercial, we’re easy to work with, we’re committed and reliable, and we are genuinely invested in the success of our clients,” says Robert.
Robert is excited about the position Addisons has carved out in the Australian legal market, “We see ourselves as a challenger firm to the traditional large law firm or top-tier model, and we regularly hear from our clients and other people who work with us that they appreciate the quality of our offering.”
Robert takes over from former Managing Partner Kieren Parker. Kieren led the firm since May 2021. He concluded his term as Managing Partner at the end of 2025 and remains active as a partner in the Addisons M&A and corporate team.
Reflecting on the collaborative nature of the Addisons partnership, the leadership transition was well-planned said Robert, “Kieren has done a fantastic job leading the firm over the last five years and has overseen significant success in our business. I’m taking the baton, but what lies ahead is evolution and not revolution. One of my priorities is continuing to get the word out there about Addisons and the strength of our teams.”
About Robert Kerr
Addisons Partner Robert Kerr advises clients across a spectrum of industries who trust Robert with their M&A, corporate and big-ticket commercial projects. He has a reputation for facilitating successful negotiated outcomes, with a combination of commerciality and risk insight that is at the core of Addisons’ corporate offering. His practice spans private and public M&A, equity capital markets, and venture capital and his industry recognition includes being listed in Best Lawyers™ 2026 for Equity Capital Markets and M&A Law.
About Addisons
Addisons is a full-service commercial law firm, built on enduring partnerships with our Australian and international clients. Our clients see us as an integral part of their team. Many of them have trusted us for decades to be at their side providing tailored legal advice at every stage as their business evolves.
Clients call on our support for their most complex, business critical issues and their day-to-day concerns. Our lawyers are respected as astute problem solvers and tireless advocates for clients. We are known as leaders in our fields, and bring industry and business experience to provide context for our legal advice. Our size, structure and one-office strategy ensures we remain agile. And it supports our reputation for being accessible, approachable and responsive. Whatever challenges our clients face, they can count on the expertise of our diverse and experienced team.
Our culture is built on excellence, collaboration, respect and trust. This helps us create open communication and strong internal relationships. We are recognised by Australasian Lawyer as a ‘5-Star Employer of Choice’ 2023-2025 and considered one of the top law firms to work for in Australia.