Practitioners at Herbert Smith Freehills LLP often work on the full life cycle of high-value and complex deals in the energy market, in particular within the mining sector. This includes acting for IGO Limited in a billion-dollar deal which occurred amid significant volatility in nickel prices following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Nick Baker, who acts as head of energy for Australia, leads the team alongside Jay Leary, who is global head of mining. Mark Hatfull was promoted to partner in May 2022 and is a key figure in the team when it comes to oil and gas mandates. As co-head of the firm’s global infrastructure group, David Ryan is instrumental when it comes to energy matters with an infrastructure element to them. Sian Newnham is another key name to note.