The employment team at Simpson Grierson is recognised for handling a broad spectrum of workplace matters, ranging from performance management to disciplinary issues. Practice head Rebecca Rendle is highly regarded for her litigation expertise, while firm chair Phillipa Muir is a trusted adviser to numerous boards of directors. Bronwyn Heenan brings significant experience in advising public sector clients, including government departments and Crown entities. In addition, John Rooney focuses on health and safety law, frequently representing international clients.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The employment law team has a long-standing high profile in the market. They are regarded for their blue-chip client base and have a significant practice in the public sector and local government.’
- ‘They consistently deliver clear, pragmatic, and business-focused advice. Their ability to handle complex projects, including large-scale restructurings and litigation, demonstrates real depth and capability.’
- ‘They are responsive, adaptable, and willing to take on high-pressure matters with tight timeframes. The quality of advice is always first-class.’
- ‘Simpson Grierson has the ability to understand the needs of our business and deliver efficiently.’
- ‘Rebecca Rendle combines professionalism and efficiency with the ability to build trust and strong relationships with key stakeholders.’
- ‘Phillipa Muir is highly respected for her expertise and leadership in employment law, consistently providing commercially astute and practical advice.’
- ‘Bronwyn Heenan delivers pragmatic, business-focused solutions and is a standout for her clear communication and deep subject-matter expertise.’
- ‘John Rooney is an exceptional advisor who understands client needs in detail and always provides responsive, solution-focused support.’
Key clients
- Arxada NZ Limited
- Auckland University of Technology
- Bank of New Zealand (BNZ)
- Chorus New Zealand Limited
- Civil Aviation Authority
- FirstCape Limited
- Fisher & Paykel Appliances Limited (F&P)
- Fletcher Building Limited
- Fonterra Brands NZ Limited
- Google New Zealand Limited
- Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora (Health NZ)
- L’Oréal New Zealand Limited
- Marsh Limited
- Ministry of Education
- Mondiale Freight Services Limited (Mondiale VGL)
- New Zealand Customs Service (Customs)
- New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF)
- New Zealand Health Group
- The Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha and the Ministry of Social Development
- University of Auckland
Work highlights
Advising Health NZ on its national restructure, covering 85,000 employees, 32 collective agreements and 11 unions. Representing the organisation in Employment Relations Authority proceedings brought by the PSA and NZNO, as well as in mediations and personal grievance claims from individual employees.
Represented the University of Auckland in Employment Court proceedings brought by Associate Professor Siouxsie Wiles concerning academic freedom and health and safety obligations. Successfully opposed Dr Wiles’ subsequent application for leave to appeal to the Court of Appeal.
Advising the Ministry of Education on employment litigation and collective bargaining. Acted for the Minister in successfully obtaining leave to appeal a $1.8m damages award against a closed school board and continuing to advise on industrial action and collective agreement negotiations.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Bronwyn Heenan
John Rooney
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Rebecca Rendle
Practice head
Rebecca Rendle
Other key lawyers
Phillipa Muir; Bronwyn Heenan; John Rooney