Johnson Winter Slattery (JWS) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jan Hards as Partner and Head of AI, a newly created firmwide role that combines leadership in artificial intelligence strategy and client implementation with an M&A/Private Equity practice.
In this dual-focus position, Jan will lead AI-driven legal solutions with clients while maintaining a legal practice advising on M&A transactions, corporate governance, foreign investment and strategic advisory matters.
As Head of AI, Jan will focus on harnessing artificial intelligence to enhance the quality, efficiency and value of legal services delivered to clients. This includes developing client-facing AI-enhanced offerings spanning the firm's core disciplines including transactions, disputes and regulatory matters. Jan will pilot co-development projects with key clients to tailor solutions to their needs. Underpinning these initiatives, Jan will oversee the firm's AI adoption roadmap, ensuring our lawyers are equipped with the AI competency needed to provide innovative, technology-enabled legal services.
Commenting on the appointment, Managing Partner Jeremy Davis said, “This appointment reflects our commitment to embedding artificial intelligence at the heart of how we deliver legal services. Jan’s combination of deep transactional expertise and a genuine passion for legal technology makes him uniquely placed to lead this important initiative. The role ensures that our AI strategy is grounded in improving outcomes for clients, reinforcing JWS's position as a market leader in legal innovation and technology.”
Jan said, “I am delighted to take on this role at JWS at such a pivotal time for the legal profession. AI presents an extraordinary opportunity to enhance the quality, speed and value of the advice we provide. I look forward to working with our clients to deliver intelligent AI-led solutions and guiding colleagues across the firm, while also continuing to advise clients on complex corporate transactions.”
About Johnson Winter Slattery
JWS is a leading independent Australian law firm of more than 500 people, including 80+ partners, across Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Canberra, Brisbane and Perth. The firm is engaged by major corporates and investment funds on their most challenging transactions and disputes.
Key contact
Jeremy Davis
Managing Partner
T: +61 2 8274 9531 | M: +61 419 133 883
E: jeremy.davis@jws.com.au
Media contact
Angela Welsh
Marketing & Communications Manager
T: +61 2 9392 7454 | M: +61 414 281 902
E: angela.welsh@jws.com.au