About

Grant Fraser faced a unique situation for a GC, stepping into the CEO’s shoes when the role became unexpectedly vacant at Mitre 10 in 2013. Fraser, who had joined the home improvements brand two years earlier, covered the position for eight months, while a replacement was found. As well as tackling the exceptionally broad remit of a CEO, the position also gave him a rare insight into business operations seen by few in-house counsel. A former member of Telecom New Zealand’s in-house team, Fraser established Mitre 10’s legal function from scratch, and has obtained excellent feedback from those inside and outside the company. ‘He shows great judgement in when to use, and not use, external legal help’, opines one private practice source. ‘He has greatly improved the compliance regimen and quality of instruction to external counsel. He is also superb to deal with’. Fraser previously practised at Bell Gully and Allen & Overy.