Tom Fail, a former long-serving MinterEllison partner who left to run his own banking, infrastructure and project law firm has returned to his old firm as consultant.
The firm’s media statement on the return is below –
MinterEllisonRuddWatts is pleased to announce the return of leading projects, banking and infrastructure specialist Tom Fail to the firm’s partnership.
Tom brings more than 25 years’ experience advising on complex projects, project finance and banking transactions across New Zealand and Asia, with a particular depth of expertise in the construction, energy and infrastructure sectors.
Chair and Partner Janine Stewart, said Tom’s return further strengthens the firm’s market-leading position in construction and infrastructure.
“Tom is a recognised leader in the projects and infrastructure space, with a proven track record advising on some of the most significant and complex developments in New Zealand and internationally. His ability to bring together sponsors, lenders and public sector stakeholders to deliver bankable outcomes is highly valued by clients,” says Janine Stewart.
“His deep understanding of the construction and infrastructure lifecycle – from procurement and delivery through to financing and long-term operation – makes him a trusted adviser on projects that are critical to New Zealand’s growth and prosperity.”
Tom is widely recognised for his ability to navigate the full complexity of major projects, combining deep technical expertise in financing structures with a practical understanding of construction risk, commercial drivers and stakeholder priorities. He has advised governments, sponsors and lenders on a wide range of public and private projects, including PPPs, and has a longstanding track record in the energy sector.
He is particularly valued for his ability to identify and resolve project and financing issues early, ensuring projects remain commercially viable and on track.
Tom says he is excited to be returning to MinterEllisonRuddWatts and continuing to support clients on critical infrastructure and energy projects.
“MinterEllisonRuddWatts’ reputation for advising on New Zealand’s most important infrastructure developments is unmatched. I’m looking forward to working with our talented team to help clients navigate increasingly complex projects and deliver outcomes that are both commercially and strategically important,” says Tom Fail.
Tom’s return to the partnership on 20 July 2026 reflects the firm’s continued investment in its leading construction and infrastructure capability and its commitment to supporting clients across the full lifecycle of major projects.
