New Simpson Grierson Chairman Sees Parallels Between Rugby And Law
Leading law firm Simpson Grierson has appointed Rob Fisher as Chairman of the Board of Simpson Grierson.
Mr Fisher is well known for his involvement in rugby – and is currently Chairman of the New Zealand Rugby Football
Union, Vice Chairman of the International Rugby Board and a director of Rugby World Cup Limited.
His background in chairing the NZRFU has unique parallels to his new role as Chairman of Simpson Grierson. "Both the
NZRFU and Simpson Grierson are currently in the process of appointing a new Chief Executive – identifying someone with
the ability and strategic vision to drive these leading organisations to new heights,” says Mr Fisher. “There are other
similarities, such as both organisations being fully committed to a modern style of business management, using advanced
technology to meet the challenges of the electronic age, and investing in training and knowledge-building.”
Another issue facing both rugby and the legal profession as a whole is the need to retain high calibre people, says Mr
Fisher. “Quality people are being attracted overseas, particularly to the United Kingdom,” he says. “Simpson Grierson
already has strategies in place to retain or attract back to the firm high quality people – after all, it’s our people
that make us such a strong organisation.”
Globalisation also influences the business strategies of both organisations. “Both the NZRFU and Simpson Grierson are
well aware of the increasingly global market. We have strong international ties and continue to build on these links, as
well as forge new relationships around the world.”
Mr Fisher has been a partner at Simpson Grierson for 25 years, practising principally in the areas of resource
development, environmental law, water rights, mining and energy issues. He frequently appears before local authorities
and the Environment Court.
Mr Fisher has been appointed to the Board for a term of three years.
ENDS