Anthony Patten and Peter Davis appointed to energy sector leadership at Herbert Smith Freehills

Leading international law firm Herbert Smith Freehills has appointed partners Anthony Patten as Global Sector Co-Lead Partner, Energy, and Peter Davis as Head of Energy, Australia.

Both appointments are effective 1 November 2024.

With over two decades of international energy experience, Anthony specialises in M&A and project development with a strong focus on oil and gas, LNG, and renewable energy projects. Based in Singapore, he works with some of the world's leading energy companies.

"I am very pleased to be appointed to co-lead the firm's global energy team alongside London-based partner Lewis McDonald," said Anthony. "We support our strong group of leading energy clients as they navigate the challenges of meeting growing energy demand with reliable, affordable and sustainable sources of energy."

"With over 100 energy partners globally, we are committed as a firm to providing clients with strategic, coordinated and innovative advice across the Herbert Smith Freehills global network."

Peter will focus on energy sector priorities for Australia. He has been with the firm for over a decade and is based in Sydney. Peter specialises in major transactions and project development in the energy sector, including infrastructure. His reputation and strong client skills will support the Australia region's growth.

“Our Energy practice is a key strength globally and Australia is no different,” said Peter. "The path to net zero is complex and to navigate that path our clients need a firm with both global reach and local depth, and high-performing people with the specialist energy skills to advise on all aspects of a transaction."

“I look forward to working alongside the global team and our leadership in Australia to drive growth and help guide the firm's strategic direction as we continue to support our clients in the Australian energy sector,” said Peter.

"We are a leading law firm for energy clients worldwide, and Anthony and Peter's skills and leadership will help us continue our market position as trusted adviser for our energy clients, including in the energy transition," said Kristin Stammer, Executive Partner, Asia and Australia. 

ABOUT ANTHONY

Anthony advises on corporate, project development and finance matters in the international oil and gas/energy industries, including new energies such as hydrogen, ammonia and carbon capture. His two decades of experience includes six years with Shell in London and Dubai, and advising clients on investments in Africa, North and South America, Europe, and Asia. Anthony graduated with a bachelor's degree in law from the University of Melbourne and is qualified to practice in Australia and England & Wales.  Chambers has ranked him Band 1 for energy work.

ABOUT PETER

Peter is a specialist in major transactions and project development within the energy sector, including energy-related infrastructure and renewables. He has over 20 years of experience in the field, advising on mergers and acquisitions, project development, and joint ventures for large private and public sector organisations. He is a strategic advisor valued for his considered approach and commercial understanding of clients' businesses and industries. Peter has been named one of Australia’s best energy lawyers in the Best Lawyers peer review surveys each year since 2014. Peter is also recognised as a leading energy lawyer in Doyle’s Guide to the Australian legal profession and is a member of the Energy & Resources Law Association.