Ollie Gilbert — Consultant
Following the merger of Johnston Lawrence with Gilbert Swan, Ollie Gilbert joined Johnston Lawrence as a Consultant in the Business and Property Team.
Ollie has provided advice to superannuation fund managers and trustees, major investors and traders, multinational companies, New Zealand corporates and businesses and high net worth individuals. He is a director of various private companies, trustee of numerous private trusts and a member of the Wellington District Law Society Complaints Committee.
Ollie worked at Bell Gully for 23 years and was a partner from 1976 to 1991. He then worked as a sole practitioner between 1992 and 1993, after which he co-founded Gilbert Swan.
The other Ollie
When you're not a lawyer?
My outside interests are my family comprising my wife, Paula, my 3 children (who have all long since flown the nest) and our one grandchild. Next comes cycling: I have completed the Lake Taupo cycling event in each of the last 3 years. And then there is boating and fishing. I have a share in a 36 foot launch moored at Picton.
A typical day?
Keeping the balls bouncing. My practice largely comprises transactional work for an array of clients. I arrive at work and respond to emails, phone calls and mail from clients, banks, other lawyers and so forth. Once I have got on top of such matters, I will concentrate on dealing with one job at a time, interspersed with ongoing emails, phone calls and client meetings.
Why a lawyer?
I had always had an interest in writing, words, figures and business. I was lucky enough to join a large legal firm that provided a stimulating environment with a number of people of my own age.