Cooper Grace Ward begins the 2026/2027 financial year with the announcement of 13 promotions, including one special counsel, five senior associates, four associates, two c-suite appointments and a new head of information technology.
Jess Byrne, now in her tenth year with CGW, has been appointed special counsel within the insurance team. Repeatedly recognised as ‘one to watch’ in leading industry rankings, Jess excels in managing personal injury claims for insurers and self-insurers under the Workers’ Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003, with a focus on threshold and indemnity matters.
Among the new senior associates, Hannah Flanderka from the family law workgroup and Tom Jury from corporate advisory have steadily progressed through the ranks since commencing in CGW’s Graduate Development Program. Sarah Camm and Alfred Jackson, both from the commercial and private client practice, joined the firm as early-career lawyers. Shylaja Woolley, specialist in property law, has advanced from senior lawyer to senior associate since joining CGW.
Each of these lawyers has distinguished themselves through their strong leadership, dedication and expertise in their respective practice areas, consistently contributing to the firm’s growth and client success.
Four lawyers have been promoted to associate: litigation and dispute resolution lawyers Ellie Geurts and Max Carlyon, Steven Cawood from the commercial and private client team and James Brookes from corporate advisory. These four promising young solicitors have demonstrated exceptional commitment, skill and professionalism, earning individual recognition for their valuable contributions and potential within the firm.
In the business services space, the appointments of directors Damon Graham as chief operating officer and James Rimmer as chief marketing officer bolster the firm’s executive leadership to support managing partner Charles Sweeney. Complementing these changes, Rob Johnson’s elevation to head of information technology further enhances the team’s capability. Together, their combined experience will be pivotal in continuing the firm’s sustained growth, elevating client engagement and ensuring the delivery of efficient, innovative business operations.
Cooper Grace Ward celebrates these promotions, marking an exciting chapter in each team member’s career and strengthening the firm’s ability to deliver success for our team and our valued clients.
