Madeleine Kelly appointed as new Managing Partner of FB Rice
Madeleine Kelly has been appointed as the new Managing Partner of FB Rice, succeeding Brett Lunn, who has served in the role for 16 years. Starting 1 July 2025, Madeleine will lead the firm into its next chapter of growth.
FB Rice has announced the appointment of Madeleine Kelly to lead the firm as Managing Partner following Brett Lunn’s decision to step down later this year after 16 years in the role.
Dr Lunn announced he will be staying with the firm and continuing to practice as a registered patent attorney.
“In many ways, this new chapter will allow me to support the Partners in different ways, engage with clients on a far more regular basis, and provide support with business development to help guide the firm into the future.
“I’ve had a wonderful tenure as Managing Partner and felt it was time to pass on the torch to allow for a smooth succession process and enable the firm to continue to shine as an industry leader,” Dr Lunn said.
Dr Lunn has played an important role in the firm’s 75-year history and was involved in the creation of the company’s core values.
“Our team have always held ourselves to high standards with the values of continuous growth, helpful and approachable, and teamwork at our core. I know these will continue to guide us in our 76th year of operation and beyond,” Dr Lunn said.
Dr Lunn spoke highly of Ms Kelly and her appointment to the role.
“I have had the pleasure to work alongside Madeleine for almost 12 years and feel incredibly confident in her ability to lead the team and provide innovative approaches and new offerings to benefit our business and clients.
“Madeleine was made Partner in 2017 and has been recognised on the IAM Global Leaders list for three years including in 2024 and is highly skilled in the electronics and computing space.
Speaking on her appointment as the new Managing Partner, Ms Kelly said she is incredibly grateful for Dr Lunn’s guidance and continued support and is looking forward to the future.
“FB Rice is a well-established and highly regarded firm, and it is a great honour to play a pivotal role in its continued success. This year we have already announced a new IP Advisory service offering and this is just the beginning.
“I’m looking forward to engaging with our clients and our team to identify fresh ideas, while maintaining the attributes that make this firm so special,” Ms Kelly said.
Dr Lunn will officially step down as Managing Partner from 1 July 2025, spending the next few months working closely with Ms Kelly to ensure a smooth transition.
“Succession planning is something that I consider incredibly important to the continued success of a firm and for effective client continuity, I am looking forward to working collaboratively with Madeleine in the coming months to make the change as seamless as possible,” Dr Lunn said.