Dentons Kensington Swan Chair and Partner Hayden Wilson has been recognised as one of New Zealand’s most influential lawyers, featuring in NZ Lawyer’s Most Influential Lawyers list for 2023. 

Hayden’s influence extends far beyond New Zealand and Australasia. He is a member of Dentons’ Global Board and Global Advisory Committee, and he also chairs the Global Board’s Firmwide Transformation Committee, which is responsible for the strategic transformation of key business functions which is critical to determining how Dentons operates as a firm and how we engage with clients and markets in which we operate.

“Hayden is an effective, collaborative and inspiring leader and I congratulate him for this well-earned recognition", said Dentons Global CEO, Elliott Portnoy. "His business acumen and dynamism have had a significant and positive impact on the entire Firm, our clients and the legal profession at large. I thank him for his contributions and look forward to his ongoing strategic input as we continue to identify key initiatives and innovate ways to solve our clients’ most complex business challenges in New Zealand and across 80+ countries around the world.” 

As Chair in New Zealand, Hayden has been instrumental in driving the development of the Firm’s strategy and direction. He has led in positioning Dentons to help clients navigate challenges and capitalise on opportunities. Hayden's leadership and influence have created an environment  that fosters creativity, integrity and client focus – to serve our people, clients and communities.

Hayden says, “I am very fortunate to be part of an exceptional Firm that is committed to supporting our clients and our people in the best way possible. While I am delighted to have received this recognition, it is mostly testament to the continued growth of Dentons in New Zealand. I am energised to be part of the Firm’s ongoing journey as we help our clients to achieve their business goals into the future.” 

Hayden has a passion for developing talent, both within the Firm and across the profession. He has a strong focus on the future of the profession, mentoring and coaching the next generation of lawyers, helping them develop their careers and supporting them in achieving their goals. 

Besides being a Distinguished Fellow and an active participant in the International Academy of Mediators, Hayden has been instrumental in establishing a group of elite mediators from New Zealand, Australia, and around the world. The group is focused on industry-wide topical issues, generating thoughts and ideas for the betterment of the profession.

About Dentons Kensington Swan

Dentons Kensington Swan is part of Dentons, the world’s largest global law firm. With unparalleled access to the legal expertise of over 21,000 lawyers in more than 200 locations and 80 jurisdictions. Dentons Kensington Swan is a leading commercial law firm in New Zealand. www.dentons.co.nz

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About Dentons

Across over 80 countries, Dentons helps you grow, protect, operate and finance your organization by providing uniquely global and deeply local legal solutions. Polycentric, purpose-driven and committed to inclusion, diversity, equity and sustainability, we focus on what matters most to you. www.dentons.com