The former Vital Healthcare Property Trust CEO assumes the position on 3 March 2026
Former Vital Healthcare Property Trust CEO Aaron Hockly will become MinterEllisonRuddWatts’ new chief executive officer.
He takes over from Andrew Poole, who after seven years steps down from the leadership role in April 2026. Hockly will commence with the firm on 3 March 2026 to facilitate a smooth transition.
“We are delighted to welcome Aaron to our firm. His leadership track record, understanding of legal services, and strong commercial market focus make him an excellent future leader for our firm”, MinterEllisonRuddWatts board chair Janine Stewart said.
Hockly has worked in corporate governance, financial services, property and law for nearly 25 years. He led Vital Healthcare Property Trust for five and a half years; he also spent almost a decade serving as COO and general counsel at ASX lister Growthpoint Properties Australia.
He recorded stints in both private practice and in-house as a legal practitioner, working across New Zealand, Australia and the UK. He is a Fellow of the Financial Services Institute of Australasia and a Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors (NZ).
In addition to his governance qualifications, Hockly holds a master’s degree in applied finance. He was chosen as MinterEllisonRuddWatts’ new CEO after a comprehensive search process spearheaded by the board and with support from Johnson and Partners.
“I’m excited to join MinterEllisonRuddWatts at such a pivotal time for the firm. I look forward to working with the Board, partnership and management team to build on the firm’s strong market position and continue supporting our clients to realise their goals”, Hockly said.
