What makes a successful legal career? Ryan Grant's journey at Baker McKenzie
Ryan Grant joined the Firm in 2005 as a summer clerk and was recently promoted to partner in 2021.
Earlier in his career, Ryan had the opportunity to spend ten years focusing on media disputes (including copyright and defamation), working closely with the head of the Firm’s media practice.
Ryan went on to complete a 12-month secondment to Optus, standing in for an Optus deputy general counsel. His Optus secondment has meant that he is a very effective practitioner — understands exactly what in-house counsel require and knows how to deliver, including budgetary rigour and easy-to-understand and tailored advices.
Following his secondment to Optus, Ryan returned to the disputes group to focus more on information technology and other commercial disputes. Ryan has cultivated a considerable specialisation in media and technology-related disputes.
Ryan has a degree in information technology and has worked for more than 12 years in media and technology-related matters and is recognised, internally as well as externally, as a genuine expert in those areas.
Ryan is the is the current vice president of the Communications and Media Law Associataion (CAMLA). In his role as vice president of CAMLA, he was also the MC for that organisation’s annual awards function.
Several senior partners, along with the Firm’s managing partner, coach, develop and mentor Ryan across disputes and TMT. These partners are deeply invested in Ryan’s future success.
Ryan currently mentors junior lawyers in his team and actively seeks to create career pathways for these younger team members.
Ryan is a passionate advocate for better mental health outcomes and well-being in the law. He is an empathic leader who keenly wants his fellow team members to succeed and thrive.
In late 2017/early 2018, Ryan took a long service leave and full-time parental leave in order to become primary carer — one of the first men to do so at Baker McKenzie.
Ryan’s life outside the Firm is one of dedicated husband and father to Henry, and he enjoys hobbies such as car racing.
"Ryan has an enviable background in technology, providing clients with world-class legal advice relating to data protection, copyright, misleading or deceptive conduct, defamation and general commercial disputes involving complex technology. He is an exceptional lawyer who has proven ability to service our clients’ needs."
Anthony Foley
National Managing Partner, Australia
"Baker McKenzie has afforded me every opportunity to advance my career and invested in me, both professionally and personally. The Firm’s culture of friendship has been apparent at every stage of my journey and I am a proud brand ambassador."
Ryan Grant
Partner, Sydney
