General Manager
Find our team members
who have the right expertise to assist you
with your legal requirements.
Cherie returned to New Zealand in 2020 after living and working abroad for more than a decade. She previously led the management function for two of the largest law firms in Turkey, overseeing both the day-to-day operations of the firms and implementation of new operating and information security management systems. Originally from the South Island, and after having spent almost ten years working for a range of government departments in Wellington, Cherie is enjoying Hawke’s Bay and taking advantage of the outdoor lifestyle and what the region has to offer.
Her role with our firm is broad and includes people and culture, financial management, business planning and preparedness, and development of the firm’s technology infrastructure.
Trust Accountant
Lara Walker
Originally born and raised in Dannevirke before moving to Wellington for 13 years, Lara returned to the Bay in 2017 to be closer to family and friends, and to enjoy a better work/life balance with her husband and son. Initially Lara competed a Batchelor of Fine Arts majoring in Painting, and then moved into the banking sector working for BNZ for nine years. Lara joined our team as a Trust Accountant in 2017. Outside of the office, she enjoys walks with her dog, gardening, and spending time with family and friends.
Client Administrator
Sarah Boyd
Sarah is responsible for collecting client due diligence information and maintaining records necessary for AML compliance. She also looks after deeds and provides backup for reception.
Front Office Executive
Wendy McIntyre
Wendy joined the firm in January 2021 following her return to Hawke’s Bay from Wellington, where she was the Sports Coordinator at Wellington High School. Wendy is a keen sportsperson and is enjoying being back in the Bay which allows her to spend time with family and friends.
Billing Coordinator
Jodie Lawson
Jodie brings to the firm ten years’ experience in accounts roles and joined us in 2020 as Billing Coordinator. In this newly created role, Jodie oversees the processing of the firm’s invoices, letters of engagements and accounts rendered.
Legal Secretary
Clarissa Botes
Clarissa moved to the beautiful Hawke’s Bay early in 2021, following five years in Auckland after immigrating from South Africa in 2016. Clarissa loves cooking and baking, enjoys entertaining with family and friends, and of course spending time with her hubby and two kids.
Senior Legal Assistant
Jude Hay
Jude brings to the firm more than twenty years’ experience in conveyancing and family law. When not busy organising the office lotto or our Friday drinks, Jude enjoys spending time with friends, tramping in the hills, walking her Labradoodle Harry and relaxing with a fine wine.
Legal Secretary
Cathi Keenan
Cathi relocated to the Bay from Queenstown in 2017 to be closer to family and friends. She joined Bramwell Bate the same year. The legal profession has sparked her interest and she is currently studying towards the Legal Executive Diploma. When not studying or working, Cathi is out walking her dog, biking, kayaking, and exploring the great restaurants, vineyards and local beaches on offer in the area.
Legal Secretary
Chloé Smart
Chloé was born and raised in the Northeast of England and emigrated to New Zealand in 2007. She spent 12 years in Auckland before relocating to Hawke’s Bay with her husband. Prior to joining Bramwell Bate, Chloé was a receptionist at a local Hastings law firm for a couple of years following ten years in the insurance industry. In her spare time, Chloé enjoys renovating her 1920s villa, collecting pets and plants, and sampling local Hawke’s Bay wines.
Legal Secretary
Wendy Grant
Wendy has around 30 years’ experience in the legal sector in Australia and joined the firm in late 2020. She provides legal secretarial support to the criminal and family law team. Outside the office, Wendy spends most of her time enjoying the outdoors whether it be the beach, diving, hiking or checking out the local vineyards on her electric scooter.