Barry Nilsson Head of Insurance & Health Rhett Kennedy will retire as Principal at the end of 2025, after 40 years at the firm.
Rhett started at Barry Nilsson in 1985 as a newly admitted solicitor in general litigation and went on to establish the firm’s insurance practice.
In 2020, he was appointed Barry Nilsson’s inaugural chair of the board of management where he led the firm through a period of growth and disruption, across a four-year term.
Rhett has been an instrumental member of the leadership team which has overseen several milestones, including the firm’s national expansion, navigating the pandemic, introducing a new governance structure as inaugural chair and acting as Client Relationship Partner.
Beyond corporate achievements, Rhett championed responsible business practices as chairperson, led Barry Nilsson to develop its 2026 diversity and inclusion strategy, achieved significant milestones for the firm’s Impact Project, and exceeded the National Pro Bono Target.
Rhett said he was confident that Barry Nilsson was primed for continued growth and success in the years to come.
“As I prepare to leave the firm, I retire knowing it is in the best shape it has ever been, and I have the utmost confidence in the team who will step forward in my place,” he said.
“While I am retiring as Principal, I look forward to continuing my association with the firm in a consulting capacity from next year.”
Principal Jordan Farr and Special Counsel Gillian Sheppard will continue to lead the Queensland Financial Lines team at the end of this year.
Barry Nilsson Chairperson Peter Murdoch said Mr Kennedy’s tenure leaves a lasting legacy, having contributed to the success of the insurance practice and the wider firm.
“Known for his high level of professionalism, his commitment to his clients and his depth of knowledge, Rhett has been an outstanding leader for the firm,” Peter said.
“He has played an instrumental role in strengthening the firm’s position as a leading national law firm and has contributed deeply to the development of the culture and values of the firm throughout his tenure.
“As we look ahead to Barry Nilsson’s bright future and continued focus on growth under our 2026-2028 strategic plan, we thank Rhett for his deep commitment to set the firm up for ongoing
success.”
Share this article