Melissa Higham Email & Phone Number

I head the Commercial Team at Martelli McKegg. I have over 25 years experience representing clients in all aspects of commercial law.I specialise in mergers and acquisitions, providing practical guidance and legal support to clients throughout the entire transaction process. I am well versed in advising clients on all areas of commercial law, including:• Mergers and Acquisitions, involving both business acquisitions/disposals and share deals, deal structuring and industry-specific laws governing M&A transactions; • Corporate advisory services including ongoing corporate advice to clients, assisting with day-to-day legal matters, risk management and strategic planning to support clients’ long term growth and success;• Contract negotiation and drafting ensuring optimal protection of clients’ interests and alignment with strategic objectives, including terms of trade, supply arrangements, distribution agreements, employment agreements, intellectual property licenses, sponsorship agreements, franchise agreements, general and specific security agreements;• Corporate law including corporate governance, director’s duties, restructurings, joint ventures and shareholder agreements, company secretarial duties;• Structuring advice and implementation (Companies, Limited Partnerships, Joint Ventures, Trusts);• Advisory work including advising on compliance with applicable legislation;• Financing and securities including acting for borrowers and lenders and drafting and advising on security documentation.I have a demonstrated track record of working with clients across various industries including grocery, manufacturing, healthcare, technology and finance, adapting expertise to meet industry-specific requirements.Having practised in both New Zealand and England I have a comprehensive understanding of different legal systems and business practices to efficiently represent clients in a global marketplace.QualificationsLLB (Hons) First Class First Division -1996Admitted as a Barrister and Solicitor in New Zealand – 1997Admitted as a Solicitor in the United Kingdom - 2002MembershipsMeritas Management Committee Australia and New Zealand Region.Foodstuffs approved list of recommended professionals to work with during change of ownerships

Listed skills include Due Diligence, Mergers And Acquisitions, Corporate Law, Commercial Litigation, and 9 others.