William & Lonsdale Podcast

EPISODE 80 : Derek Humphery-Smith

This week, we welcome Derek Humphery-Smith, Partner and Head of International at Lander & Rogers, to Lives in the Law.

Derek practises in all areas of workplace relations and safety law. He is also Chair of TerraLex, the world’s largest network of independent law firms, and Chairman of the Victorian Council of Governors for the American Chamber of Commerce in Australia - roles we explore in this episode.

Derek first studied science at the University of Queensland, where he discovered a passion for anatomy. But while completing his honours year, it dawned on him that science might not be his lifelong path, so he embarked on a law degree. Around the same time, he was transitioning from playing AFL football at university to umpiring. He went on to become an AFL umpire, a role that brought him to Melbourne, where he pursued both his legal career and umpiring simultaneously. As you’ll hear, in a football town like Melbourne there were significant professional benefits to being on the inside of the AFL, and often unexpected advantages to having both strings to his bow.

It’s a fascinating conversation about a career that has spanned the law, international legal practice, governance and elite sport, and a pleasure to welcome Derek to Lives in the Law.

Derek Humphery-Smith, Lander & Rogers

TereLex 

2023 Queensland Football Hall of Fame – Derek Humphery-Smith

American Chamber of Commerce in Australia

Transcript