News & Insights

Macpherson Kelley is pleased to announce that Olivia Holmes has been promoted to an executive leadership position as Chief People Officer.

Olivia has been with the firm since 2014, starting as a HR Business Partner for Victoria, then moving into the Victorian HR Manager and National HR Manager role.

Olivia has been instrumental in implementing progressive changes to the firm’s policy and priorities, including driving the expansion of Macpherson Kelley’s parental leave policy in 2022 and launching the firm’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion working groups.

Macpherson Kelly COO David Ward, who has worked closely with Olivia over the years, says that her contributions will be pivotal as the firm experiences a period of increased recognition and growth.

“Olivia has worked very hard over the last 9 years. She is driven, diligent, and strategic, and balances the hard and softer sides of the people function superbly. She is the epitome of our values and culture,” said David.

Commenting on her new appointment, Olivia has identified a list of priorities for her new role as Chief People Officer, which she says is born out of a desire to create a workplace empowered by belonging, connection and outstanding service to clients and colleagues.

“I’d like to further establish Macpherson Kelley as a great place to work and an ‘employer of choice’ through employee voice and action,” said Olivia.

“We are about to start work on defining a genuine and compelling employee value proposition and employer brand. In many ways, I see this as the final piece of the puzzle – bringing together all the aligned initiatives we have implemented in recent times. I am excited to define this for our people and proudly share what makes Macpherson Kelley a great place to work with the market,” she said.

While the firm has always prioritised the progression and development of its people, Olivia aims to bring more formality to existing frameworks, utilising innovative tools that will support the aspirations and skills of Macpherson Kelley lawyers and staff.

“Developing our workforce by building technical, non-technical and leadership capability will improve our ability to exceed expectations and targets and create career paths all while keeping up with the changing needs of our business and clients,” said Olivia.

“This can take on many forms but for me, it comes back to the question of – is this the best way we can be working? Because I want Macpherson Kelley to be bold in its adaptation of promoting a progressive workplace – whether it be through new offices, flexible hybrid work or the utilisation of AI technology.”

“With a renewed purpose and vision in mind, I’m excited to see how I can apply that ethos to People and Culture,” she said.

The information contained in this article is general in nature and cannot be relied on as legal advice nor does it create an engagement. Please contact one of our lawyers listed above for advice about your specific situation.