Peter MacKenzie 

Retired in 2021

Peter was one of the founders of MacKenzie Thomas and retired from the firm in 2021. He is enjoying his retirement, though he remains in contact.

Prior to his retirement, Peter had over 40 years’ experience in the financial services industry since his initial roles as in-house counsel for Friends' Provident Life (now part of the TAL Group) and, in 1980, at Prudential Assurance (now part of CommInsure). Before returning to legal practice in 1990, he had several years away from the law when he took senior executive roles in superannuation and life insurance management.

Drawing on this background, Peter established a practice in superannuation, life insurance and funds management as a partner of Abbott Tout (1990) and later at Ebsworth & Ebsworth (2002).

The natural synergy within these practice areas and rapid industry development in a dynamic market, led to an increasingly holistic approach by Government and the steady formulation of a complex body of specialist laws regulating financial services which continue to change and develop. Peter was at the forefront in the industry response to these laws as they were proposed and developed and continues to assist industry participants in responding to the constantly evolving regulatory landscape.

He regularly advised company boards and management in all aspects of their business, from product formulation through to marketing and distribution and prudential regulation. He engaged in the establishment, restructure, merger and acquisition and licensing of insurers, trustees and responsible entities as well as the products, schemes and commercial arrangements that they manage.

Our firm developed a special relationship with its clients due to the approach fostered by Peter and Brian Thomas as founders of the firm. That approach has generated long standing relationships with clients and business associates.