News And Views

The GC’s Guide to Good Data Governance. Following our successful and informative Shift Advisory and Shift GC Network event month, ‘A GC’s Guide to Data Governance’, we’ve captured insights from our powerhouse panel:  Rachel O’Brien – Director at O’Brien Legal Tim Fletcher – Chief Legal and People Officer at Modica Group Rebecca Holdsworth – Head of Privacy and Responsible AI at One NZ Caroline Wishart – Head of Information Management at Fonterra  In this article, we share some of their key perspectives on how GCs can navigate the challenges and opportunities of data governance with confidence. 

Social cohesion is built by leaders who are willing to listen, learn and help others do the same. Shift Advisory client and GC of NZTA Waka Kotahi Meredith Ussher has bought a culture of inclusivity and togetherness to her team in her role as a leader:

Social Cohesion in New Zealand Report co-author and chief economist at Simplicity Shamubeel Eaqub, discusses why New Zealand’s social fabric is fraying, why its time for business leaders to step up.

Claire Adams' joined Prue Tyler and Caroline Ferguson at this year's ILANZ Conference in Tāmaki Makaurau. One session in particular on tikanga Māori and law reform left a lasting impression.

Procuring software and technology (particularly SaaS) comes with legal and commercial risks that in-house counsel must navigate carefully, so how do you make sure your agreements protect your organisation? At the Legalwise In-House Counsel Conference 2025, key insights were shared on negotiating contracts, managing vendor performance, and mitigating risks—especially when dealing with major global providers versus local vendors. Shift Advisory Consultant Julie Daniels attended to find out more.

Prue contributed her insights at LawFest and a Centre for Legal Innovation session. SHIFT COO Caroline Ferguson—who has a strong background in tech operations and a keen interest in the evolving role of GenAI in law—closely followed the discussions. Here, Caroline shares her key takeaways from these events.

Louise Martin is the Head of Legal & Company Secretary at Auckland International Airport. Winner of In-House Lawyer of the Year at the 2024 NZ Law Awards, she and her partner have two small children.

Climate-related disclosure is part of the overall picture of managing climate impacts, risk and opportunities.