Lane Neave Lawyers make new appointment for next step in client service
Leading Christchurch law firm Lane Neave has created a new role, appointing Carlton Walker as Business Development
Manager.
Joining the firm in its 140th year, Walker brings with him 11 years industry experience working in the upper levels of
law service throughout Singapore and Hong Kong. “Carlton has delivered on some brilliant projects in the past,” said
Lane Neave partner Bill Dwyer, “and will be a vital part of the team.”
After gaining valuable experience at Allen & Overy’s Hong Kong office Walker spent several years at Clifford Chance and DLA Piper before being headhunted by U.S.
firm Latham & Watkins for their Singapore office.
With his arrival in Christchurch the Business Development Manager has found an inspiring mix of industry conditions he
has worked with in the past. “It has been a global phenomenon – a change in how firms approach clients, how they
maintain relationships with them, and how they deliver a consistently high level of service,” said Walker.
“A broad identification of international models sees the British as recognising the importance of this approach first.
American firms were slower to adjust initially but have now taken the methodology and are running with it,” said Walker.
“Australia and New Zealand are actively looking to emulate the success of these endeavours, adapting the model further
for the most appropriate delivery of service. And Lane Neave has the vision to move ahead of the pack.”
“This last decade we’ve seen a real movement away from the ivory tower mentality that lawyers were renowned for,” said
Walker.
“Nowadays it’s about understanding that we work in a service industry, and treating our clients accordingly.” Walker
expects that key opportunities will naturally present themselves over the coming year, with the success of the law firm
linked to the recognition and appropriate reaction to these opportunities.
“Carlton’s experience and forward-thinking will be a huge asset to the firm,” said Lane Neave chairman Stephen Collins.
“I have no doubt that his efforts will be an integral part of our growth over the coming years.”
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