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testimonials
Derek O’Neill, ex-CEO of Billabong International, founder Vissla Europe

“Julian and I worked together for 6 years while I was CEO at Billabong.  I was always impressed with the quality of his work and he always got it done.  We worked shoulder to shoulder on complex negotiations and he was thorough and insightful, producing high quality documents (often without the benefit of external counsel) that protected the interests of the company.  He also understood our industry, was highly commercial and thrived on unique challenges, particularly around risk minimisation exposure strategies at our many events around the world”

Hon. Alexander Downer AC, Australian High Commissioner to the UK, partner of Bespoke Approach

“Julian has a first rate legal mind, one hallmark being his ability to explain complex issues in simple terms.  He is able to write persuasive submissions in the context of lobbying for government support and action.  He attended with me high level meetings with senior government Ministers and was always professional and on point.”

Rob Kennett, Partner Kelly & Co, Partner HWL Ebsworth

“I have had the pleasure to know and work with Julian Blanchard for over 25 years. He is blessed with a razor sharp intellect, an ability to cut through the distracting “noise” in a transaction and a drive to achieve outstanding results. Julian has a proven ability to work very hard in some extremely demanding legal roles and to deliver excellence. He is an intelligent and insightful client and a practical and commercial lawyer. Highly recommended!”

John Mossop, General Manager, Vissla

“I had the pleasure of working with Julian Blanchard for six years within the international division of the public-listed company Billabong International Limited. As the Corporate Communications Manager, I worked alongside Julian on a range of major acquisitions, significant legal challenges and day-to-day management tasks. During that time I found Julian to be considered, diligent and precise with his actions and advice. He efficiently managed the often complex internal dynamics between the Board of Directors and the executive management team headed by the chief executive officer, as well as external relationships with shareholders, advisors and counsel for target acquisitions. I often sought personal counsel from Julian in the execution of my role within Billabong and I continue to seek his valued opinion in my current role as general manager of a new surf apparel business.”

Mark Potgieter, Managing Director, One Floor Up Pty Ltd

“Julian is very professional, as you would expect from a top lawyer, but more importantly, he is very personable and easily gains the trust of clients with whom he works.  He has superior research skills which, when combined with his excellent analytical skills, enables him to process large volumes of information quickly and formulate an effective strategy. What really sets Julian apart is his innovative thinking and alternative approaches to difficult legal issues and business situations. He is creative within the contexts of the law and always strives to find better solutions for a business.  I highly recommend Julian.”

Hon. Nick Bolkus, Partner, Bespoke Approach

“I have found Julian Blanchard to be an experienced and versatile legal adviser.  He has a capacity to expertly analyse issues as well as to assess them within broader contexts.  His capacity and experience enables him to work efficiently across a broad range of corporate issues.“

Ian Smith, Partner, Bespoke Approach

“Bespoke Approach worked with Julian on a complex, cross-border matter for nearly two years. Even in the face of cultural differences and jurisdictional challenges, Julian led negotiations with a focus and calmness as well as professional capability that helped successfully conclude the matter. Blanchard Legal will provide trusted and rational counsel, I am sure.”

Scott Wallace, Founder, The Band Marketing (Formerly VP Billabong)

“During my time as International VP, New Media & Strategic Partnerships for the Billabong Group Julian and I worked closely on all manner of agreements to cover International sponsorships, media partnerships, music licensing and product licensing deals.  Julian is fantastic to work with as he listens to what you need and then responds with everything I thought we needed covered plus more.  Since leaving Billabong we have engaged Julian’s expertise for The Band Marketing where again he is helping us grow our International business with key clients in several Countries. We trust in Julian’s knowledge, his commitment to our success and appreciate the personal relationship of dealing directly with such an experienced lawyer.”

Brodie Carr, CEO/President of the Association of Surfing Professionals 2005 - 2011

“I worked with Julian for 5 years during which time Julian was leading legal advisor to help guide us through our event licence agreements and athlete contracts. These two agreements formed the backbone of the Association of Surfing Professionals and continue to exist today. Julian is extremely professional, methodical, and reliable and has the ability to help navigate all parties through the legal landscape. I hope we get to work together in the future and have no hesitation in recommending Julian to others.”