He also shares his personal vision for the organisation
Tony Herring’s vision for The Law Association of New Zealand is for it to be an organisation that supports all lawyers and all stages of their careers. In his final year as president, he wants to be able to leave TLANZ “in a position of strength”.
Last week, he told NZ Lawyer why it was important to him to be re-elected as TLANZ president; in the second half of this interview, he discloses a major challenge he expects to face in this last term and tells us the legacy he hopes to leave.
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as president?
The biggest challenge has been leading change. We have had to rethink how we operate, how we deliver value, and how we position ourselves in a rapidly evolving profession. That’s not easy - it requires difficult decisions and a willingness to challenge the status quo - but it’s been necessary. I have been fortunate to have a very supportive and highly skilled council and chief executive in Clayton Kimpton. The staff at The Law Association are exceptional.
What’s one major challenge you expect to face in this current term?
Maintaining momentum is always the challenge. We have made strong progress, but expectations are higher now. We need to continue evolving, stay relevant, and ensure that we are meeting the changing needs of the profession, particularly as technology and new ways of working reshape the legal landscape.
What’s your personal vision for TLANZ, and how have you been working to realise it?
My vision has always been for The Law Association to be the organisation that supports every lawyer, at every stage of their career. We have worked hard towards that by growing our membership, expanding our services, strengthening our advocacy, and building a more connected national presence.
What legacy do you hope to leave as a leader?
I want to leave The Law Association in a position of strength, an organisation that is financially and strategically relevant to the profession. More than that, I want to leave an organisation that is confident in its role, clear in its purpose, and well placed to continue growing and evolving long after I am no longer president.
