HopgoodGanim Lawyers has announced the appointment of Graeme Johnson as its new Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer.
Joining the firm on Monday 23 March, his appointment comes at a pivotal stage as HopgoodGanim continues to strengthen its leadership capability to support sustainable, long‑term growth and a consistently high‑performing practice.
With more than 13 years’ experience at leading Australian law firm Clayton Utz, Graeme represents a highly strategic appointment, bringing deep operational insight and proven leadership experience within the legal sector. His background is complemented by senior commercial management roles, having previously held Chief Financial Officer positions at Oaks Hotels and Resorts, Macquarie Airports, and across several divisions of Westpac.
Managing Partner Luke Mountford said the appointment marked a significant evolution in the firm’s leadership structure.
“This is a significant step forward for HopgoodGanim,” Mr Mountford said. “As the firm continues to grow and evolve, it was critical for us to strengthen our executive leadership with someone who brings both deep legal sector experience and sophisticated commercial capability. Graeme’s appointment reflects our commitment to building a leadership team that can support the firm at the highest level.”
Graeme will work closely with Mr Mountford alongside the firm’s executive committee and broader leadership team, with responsibility for overseeing the firm’s operational, financial and strategic functions.
Mr Mountford said Graeme’s experience would be instrumental in supporting the firm’s ambition to operate as a consistently high‑performing law firm.
"Graeme brings a rare combination of professional services expertise and large‑scale commercial leadership,” he said.
His experience will help sharpen our operational discipline, strengthen financial performance and support our partners and teams to perform at their best as the firm continues its next phase of growth.”
Also commencing on the same day as Mr Johnson, Special Counsel Lea Fua has returned to HopgoodGanim Lawyers. A 10‑year alumni of the firm, Lea rejoins after eight years working with a global law firm and in an in‑house legal role. He is a highly experienced corporate and M&A lawyer with a strong client base across mining and agribusiness.
Lea’s return reflects the firm’s strong culture and reputation, underscoring HopgoodGanim’s ability to attract, retain and re‑engage top legal talent as it continues to invest in its people and future capability.
Both Graeme and Lea will be based at HopgoodGanim’s first‑class office space at 360 Queen Street in Brisbane.
“We’re excited to welcome both Graeme and Lea to HopgoodGanim,” Mr Mountford said. “Graeme is a highly respected leader, and it’s great to have Lea returning to the firm.”
The announcement follows a strong recruitment focus for the firm in the previous year, with the acquisition of a leading real estate practice and senior appointments across IPTC, energy transition, workplace and employment, estates and succession, and family and relationships.
“We’re looking forward to another strong year ahead,” Mr Mountford concluded.