Source: Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA)
The EMA (Employers and Manufacturers Association) has appointed experienced employment lawyer Matthew Dearing as Head of Legal and General Counsel, strengthening its specialist support for New Zealand businesses at a time of significant workplace and employment law change.
Throughout his career, Dearing has advised organisations ranging from small businesses to major multinational employers across all aspects of New Zealand employment law. He regularly supports clients through complex and sensitive matters, including personal grievances, restructures, performance management, medical incapacity issues and workplace investigations. He also represents clients in collective bargaining, Labour Inspectorate matters, mediation, the Employment Relations Authority, the Human Rights Review Tribunal and the Employment Court.
Dearing is no stranger to the EMA, having previously worked in the organisation’s legal team from 2011 to 2022. From 2017 to 2022, he was Head of Legal and General Counsel, leading a team of specialist employment lawyers and supporting employers across a wide range of workplace relations matters.
EMA Chief Executive John Fraser-Mackenzie said Dearing’s appointment reinforces the EMA’s commitment to providing businesses with practical, commercially focused legal support.
“Matthew brings an outstanding combination of legal expertise, leadership experience and deep knowledge of the EMA and our members.
“Having previously led our legal team, he understands the challenges employers face and the importance of delivering advice that is both legally sound and commercially pragmatic.
“At a time when businesses are navigating significant workplace and employment law change, Matthew’s experience will be invaluable in helping our members build productive workplaces, manage risk and respond confidently to emerging issues.
“We are delighted to welcome Matthew back to the EMA leadership team.”
Dearing holds a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Waikato and a Master of Laws with Merit from Victoria University of Wellington. He was admitted to the Bar in 2005 and is an AMINZ-qualified mediator. He has also been a member of The Law Association’s Employment Law Committee for the past 14 years.
Dearing said he was excited to return to the EMA and reconnect with its members.
“The EMA plays a vital role in supporting New Zealand businesses, and I am looking forward to working with members and alongside the talented team at the EMA.
“The workplace landscape continues to evolve, bringing both opportunities and challenges for employers. I look forward to helping businesses find practical solutions that support their people, meet their legal obligations and achieve their business goals.”
As Head of Legal, Dearing will lead the EMA’s specialist legal team, providing employment law advice, advocacy and training support to EMA members across New Zealand.
More information about the EMA’s legal services: https://ema.co.nz/services/legal/