Herbert Smith Freehills appoints new global Chief People Officer to deliver its ambitious people strategy

Leading international law firm Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF) has appointed a new global Chief People Officer (CPO), Jo McConnell, to drive the firm’s ambitious people and culture strategy.

Jo joins the firm this week, with her appointment effective from 1 January.

In announcing the appointment, Global CEO, Justin D’Agostino, said that HSF is determined to remain in the leading pack in every market and sector it operates in, and Jo will play a key role in this focus, ensuring that we have the very best people to support our clients’ success.   

“Our clients know that it is our high-performing and supportive teams, underpinned by an extraordinary culture, that is at the core of the market-leading outcomes that we deliver.

“Jo will lead our people and culture strategy globally – which brings insights and diverse perspectives from offices in almost 20 countries – and will support key growth areas for our clients, including: energy transition, private capital and AI and technology.  

“We are intentionally investing in developing and acquiring skills in these growth areas, such as in generative AI, which will bring increased career opportunities for our people and stronger outcomes for our clients.

“Jo brings deep experience in digital and organisational transformation, high performance culture, as well as C-Suite leadership development, and will help to lead the expansion of these capabilities globally,” Justin said.

Jo joins the firm from Accenture where she has been leading the CEO Transformation practice across its Growth Markets. Jo has over 30 years' experience in global and regional industries including professional services, energy, financial services and mining.

“Herbert Smith Freehills is known around the world for its exceptional people, teams and culture – which underpins everything it does for its clients.

“I am joining this globally leading firm at a time when it is strengthening its investments in professional development and attraction of top talent, while embracing the opportunities presented by AI and rapid technological change.  

“I look forward to working alongside an incredibly talented and dedicated team of HR professionals across our international network to lead the firm’s people and culture ambitions,” Jo said.

Jo will succeed CPO Helen Anthony, following her retirement at the end of the year after more than 12 years with the firm.

“I would like to thank Helen for her outstanding contribution to the firm and her outstanding leadership on our global people and culture strategy.  

“We wish Helen all the best for her well-deserved retirement and look forward to Jo formally taking on the CPO role in the new year,” Justin said.