KPMG is investing heavily in digital transformation and innovation. I was recruited specifically to lead the Office of General Counsel's contribution to KPMG Australia's digital and technology-focused growth. Working within a fantastic team, I manage a number of direct reports. I report to the General Counsel and work closely with senior management, including the Chief Operating Officer, Chief Risk Officer, Chief Data Officer and Chief Information Security Officer, as well as our Innovation, Solutions and Ventures team. Managing a high volume of work, in a demanding, fast-paced environment across KPMG Australia's business, my role includes advising on the legal issues around: - technology development, protection and commercialisation - the roll-out of cloud-based, digital products to clients - the delivery of technology-related services, such as SaaS, software development, implementation and configuration, including under significant government and private sector contracts - the structuring and development of new, technology-based service offerings, including those adopting AI and blockchain technology- the commercialisation of technology solutions globally- the procurement of technology solutions for KPMG- contracting and strategies in relation to the above- cyber-security and data protection, including the impact of the GDPR- the establishment of new business and ventures such as Wiise, a collaboration between KPMG Australia, CBA and Microsoft.From an operational perspective, I place a strong emphasis on the streamlining of advice, continuous improvement and looking at how we can make the complex simple and the simple even simpler.I am also privileged to represent KPMG Australia on KPMG's global technology contracting forum.

This role saw me working across the IP, technology, competition and general commercial space. From an IP and technology perspective, my work included:- drafting, reviewing and negotiating technology contracts, including advising on complex software and technology supply arrangements- strategising the exploitation and enforcement of IP rights- advising on the licensing-out and licensing-in of IP and technology- advising on the sale and purchase of technology businesses- advising on celebrity endorsements.I was selected by clients and peers as a leading IT lawyer in Who’s Who Legal: Telecommunications Media & Technology 2016.In the competition and consumer law area, I advised on: - restrictive trade practices and the Australian Consumer Law, including managing submissions to and investigations by the ACCC- marketing and advertising materials compliance- product recalls, including successfully managing several significant recalls.Outside of day-to-day client work, I conducted training for both staff and clients, as well as sat on the firm's Risk Management Committee.

Temporary employment taken upon arrival in Australia, whilst seeking a permanent role as a lawyer.

Contentious and non-contentious IP and technology matters.

Four 6 month rotations as part of my training contract to be admitted as a lawyer in England and Wales:- IP/IT/Media- Insolvency litigation- Secondment to Prudential plc (commercial and IP/T focus)- Mergers & acquisitions