Bill Papastergiadis OAM, Melbourne Managing Partner and Chair of the National Executive of Moray & Agnew, has been recognised as one of the Law Firm Leaders of the Year for Australia and New Zealand. This was announced in the 2025 publication, Australasian Lawyer and NZ Lawyer ‘Law Firm Leaders of the Year’.
Australasian Lawyer and NZ Lawyer, Australia’s leading independent legal publication, conducted a far-reaching analysis of the legal industry over the last 18 months examining the most influential leaders with exceptional leadership, strategic vision, problem solving and legal expertise and contribution to their firm’s success. Mr Papastergiadis was ranked as one of the standout performers with exemplary professional abilities and expertise.
Chris Sweeney, Managing Editor for Special Reports at Australasian Lawyer and NZ Lawyer shared his insights on the selection process, stating, “The standard of nominees was extremely high and showcased how deep the industry’s talent pool is. Mr Papastergiadis was recognised on this year’s prestigious list for his leadership, vision and outstanding ability to problem solve for clients.”
The Australasian Lawyer publication detailed: “Since Papastergiadis’ tenure began in 2007, the firm has expanded from five partners to 30 and an increase in staff from 10 to over 200 strong. Traditionally an insurance firm, through his vision and leadership, it has diversified, now comprising 50% insurance practitioners and 50% of lawyers working over the full range of commercial areas such as: corporate, property, construction, government, workplace and commercial litigation.
Creating a culture of flexibility, camaraderie and excellence, is important. Mr Papastergiadis is quoted as saying:
“I try to be transparent, friendly and responsible. I treat people with respect and, in particular, our younger people, who are more vulnerable. I want to make sure that we are offering at every opportunity, the best version of ourselves to them and the best example, and then it’s about watching those people flourish.”
The publication states “Papastergiadis’ hands-on management has resulted in significant organic growth in the last 18 months, driven by understanding the importance of diversity within the firm and is being active in ensuring the firm supports women. These efforts are evidenced by females comprising the majority of employees: 65% of all staff and, 59% of all legal staff.”
The publication goes on to state “Bill is also passionate about supporting immigrant communities in Melbourne and is President of the Greek Community of Melbourne group and in 2019 was awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for his service to that community.”
“To be acknowledged amongst fellow industry leaders is a great honour,” Mr Papastergiadis said whilst adding “I consider this recognition not just for me, but for the incredible team at Moray & Agnew who work tirelessly every day to deliver exceptional legal service.”
Moray & Agnew has achieved recent success with its recognition in this year’s Legal 500 Asia Pacific Directory, a preeminent law firm directory which ranks Australia’s leading law firms. The firm achieved rankings in the top tiers for Construction, Real Estate, Insurance, Employment and Dispute Resolution.
This recognition is the latest in a number of accolades confirming Moray & Agnew Melbourne’s standing within the legal community as leaders in numerous areas of law. The firm consistently makes the rankings in a number of other top legal directories including Chambers and Doyle’s Guide.
Mr Papastergiadis concludes “As we look toward this year, we remain focused on growing our firm and providing exceptional service to our clients. Our outlook for the future is incredibly positive, and we are excited about the opportunities ahead.”
