Source: MinterEllisonRuddWatts
Leading New Zealand law firm, MinterEllisonRuddWatts is pleased to announce the appointment of Aaron Hockly as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Aaron will join MinterEllisonRuddWatts on 3 March 2026 to allow for a seamless transition from the firm’s current Chief Executive, Andrew Poole, who is stepping down in April 2026.
Aaron has almost 25 years of experience spanning corporate governance, financial services, property, and law including 5.5 years as CEO of the NZX-listed Vital Healthcare Property Trust, where he successfully led the $3.6 billion trans-Tasman healthcare landlord through a period of significant growth and improved stakeholder relationships.
Aaron’s career began in law, with roles at leading firms and in-house positions in New Zealand, Australia and the United Kingdom before moving into senior executive roles, including nearly 10 years as COO and General Counsel at ASX-listed Growthpoint Properties Australia. Aaron has a Master of Applied Finance and governance qualifications. He is also a Fellow of the Financial Services Institute of Australasia and a Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors (NZ).
Aaron brings high energy leadership and strategic vision and will lead MinterEllisonRuddWatts into its next phase of growth and innovation.
On announcing the appointment, the firm’s Board Chair, Janine Stewart, said: “We are delighted to welcome Aaron to our firm. His leadership track record, understanding of legal services, and strong commercial market focus make him an excellent future leader for our firm.”
Commenting on his appointment, Aaron said: “I’m excited to join MinterEllisonRuddWatts at such a pivotal time for the firm. I look forward to working with the Board, partnership and management team to build on the firm’s strong market position and continue supporting our clients to realise their goals.”
Aaron succeeds Andrew Poole, who is stepping down after 7 years of dedicated service in April 2026. Under Andrew’s leadership, MinterEllisonRuddWatts has achieved excellent growth and lead the legal profession on important issues including sustainability, diversity and the introduction of AI.
The appointment follows a comprehensive search process led by the firm’s Board and supported by Johnson and Partners.
MinterEllisonRuddWatts is a top tier New Zealand law firm known for providing clients with technically excellent legal solutions and innovative advice. We are trusted advisors and work alongside our clients to ensure success. We are proud to be a New Zealand law firm offering a global outlook. Our offices in Auckland and Wellington can access an international network through our firm’s strategic alliance with MinterEllison, a leading firm in the Asia-Pacific. The firm supports numerous charitable endeavours and organisations through its pro bono and fundraising initiatives.
