Slater and Gordon appoints James Merlino as new Independent Chair

Slater and Gordon lawyers today announced the appointment of new Independent Chair and Independent Director James Merlino, marking the next step in the firm’s transformation and growth.

Mr Merlino succeeds James MacKenzie AO, who is stepping down as Chair on 16 December 2025 and will stay on the Board until February 2026 to ensure a smooth and orderly transition. Mr MacKenzie has also recently commenced a new role as Senior Adviser to Allegro Funds.

Mr Merlino brings extensive private and public sector leadership and governance experience to Slater and Gordon. During his 20 years in the Victorian Parliament, he served as Deputy Premier from 2014 to 2022 and held a range of ministerial portfolios including Education, Mental Health, and Emergency Services.

He is currently Chair of Rest – one of Australia’s largest profit-to-member superannuation funds, with two million members and more than $100 billion in funds under management – as well as the Victorian Catholic Education Authority and the Suburban Rail Loop Authority.

Johan Krynauw, Allegro Partner and Slater and Gordon Board Director said:

“James Merlino is an outstanding appointment for Slater and Gordon. His leadership and governance experience and deep commitment to the community make him incredibly well placed to guide the firm through its next phase.”

“I also want to thank James MacKenzie for his exceptional contribution to the firm during a major period of transformation.”

“With the firm now stronger than ever, this is the right moment to hand over to the next generation of Board leadership, and we’re delighted that someone of James Merlino’s calibre is stepping into the role.”

Mr Merlino said he was honoured to join a firm with such a clear social justice purpose and strong growth trajectory:

“Slater and Gordon has always stood up for people who need a powerful advocate in their corner. I’m delighted to join at a time when the firm is delivering strong outcomes for its clients, investing in innovation and expanding its national footprint.”

“The opportunity to help guide the next phase of growth – while maintaining Slater and Gordon’s commitment to access to justice – is an exciting one. I look forward to working with the Board, CEO Dina Tutungi, and the entire team.”

Mr MacKenzie, who has helped guide the firm through its delisting, capital restructure and the launch of its five-year strategy, said the firm could not be in better hands:

“It has been a privilege to lead Slater and Gordon through a period of significant transformation. The firm is performing strongly, and James Merlino brings exactly the right experience and values to support its next chapter.”

Mr Merlino’s appointment comes as Slater and Gordon continues to post strong results and prepares to expand its Management Equity Plan to a broader group of senior leaders. The firm has delivered another year of solid growth, with revenue up 9 per cent to $253.9 million and net profit after tax rising 19 per cent. It has also achieved a Net Promoter Score of +51, reflecting strong client satisfaction.

Slater and Gordon is an Allegro Funds portfolio company and has delivered two consecutive years of profit growth since being acquired in 2023.