Gilchrist Connell hires D&O and PI specialist Celia Wright

Insurance law firm Gilchrist Connell has appointed D&O and professional indemnity specialist Celia Wright as a principal in its Sydney practice.

Wright has over 20 years of experience acting on behalf of insurers in complex D&O and professional indemnity claims, and insurance coverage disputes. She has extensive experience in Australian Securities &Investments Commission (ASIC) investigations and proceedings, including issues stemming from the Royal Commission into Misconduct in the Banking, Superannuation and Financial Services Industry. Furthermore, she regularly represents corporate entities over alleged breaches of criminal and civil penalty provisions of the Corporations Act.

“I am thrilled by this opportunity to join the Gilchrist Connell team and continue the expansion of its excellent D&O and PI practice,” said Wright. “It is a very exciting time to join the firm.”

Gilchrist Connell managing principal, Richard Wood, commented: “Celia’s appointment to our PI and D&O practice supports our commitment to provide strategic and commercial advice to clients in this key area of demand. Celia is a seasoned practitioner and we are very pleased to have her on board.”

Wright’s hire continues a trend of senior female appointments at the law firm, including Christine Westlake as special counsel in the Melbourne office, and Emily Brett as senior associate in the Brisbane office. At the close of FY22, the partnership split at the firm was 60% male and 40% female.