Michael Mead

Partner

Michael is passionate about identifying innovative solutions to complex industrial relations problems with major national and multinational businesses often seeking his insights and advice to resolve challenging issues. As a key advisor and representative for a peak employer industry organisation, he has dealt with employers across an array of industries, including defence, retail, fast food and hospitality, FMCG, manufacturing and aviation ground handling operations over nearly two decades.  It also means he is highly experienced at developing and running cases that have a broad industry impact, including cases that involve applications to vary the underpinning system of regulation that is affecting employers.

Michael is renowned for his practical, calm and measured advice. His clients identify his keen thinking and ability to distil complex matters quickly to provide strategic and insightful advice as setting him apart. Michael’s client philosophy is to be regarded as a trusted partner in the decision making and strategic development of their operations – to this end he takes a deep and genuine interest in their aspirations, future horizons and risk appetite to inform his advice. He focuses on how he can support the businesses he works with to improve them, including support for the capability development of their teams.

Managing industrial disputes in highly organised and difficult environments – be it through navigating strategic decisions or through litigation where required – are strong focuses of Michael’s practice, as are all aspects of enterprise bargaining, unfair dismissal, general protections, award interpretation, discrimination and workplace bullying and investigations.

Michael also supports employers managing compliance, wages and conditions matters with their employees. He appreciates that employers do not set out to incorrectly apply entitlements to their employees and when mistakes are made this can be a difficult period for managements, boards and employees. He brings his extensive experience to this issue, fully supporting them during this challenging time.

Recognition:

Recognised as a Recommended Leading Employment Lawyer in  Doyle’s Guide – 2023.