Wendy Smith supports clients across corporate governance, structuring, transactions, compliance and law reform. She works with listed entities, government and statutory bodies, member-owned organisations and founder-led businesses. Wendy also advises participants across the insurance sector on strategic objectives, commercial arrangements and regulatory change, and assists global clients expanding into New Zealand, both within insurance and across a range of other sectors. 

Jacob Nutt advises financial institutions, sponsors and corporates on complex structured finance, securitisation, banking and finance transactions in New Zealand and internationally. With expertise in structured finance and banking, Jacob has particular depth in renewable energy financing and green loans. Alongside his client work, Jacob contributes to access to justice and the strengthening of the rule of law through global pro bono partnerships, including traveling to Vanuatu to teach at the University of the South Pacific as part of the Pacific Island Teaching Programme. 

The appointments form part of five senior promotions in New Zealand, with Tayla McEntee, Liam Johannesson and Sundaresh Thangavelu promoted to senior associate from 1 July 2026.