Melinda Upton

I joined Deloitte Australia in 2024 as a Senior Equity Partner bringing to Deloitte over 25 years of legal and leadership experience, deep client relationships, and a solid business network. I lead the Intangible, Data, Tech Legal offering globally and growth client relationships in the Australian business. I am a member of the Global Legal Executive chaired by Richard Punt, Global Head of Legal. Deloitte’s legal network of nearly 3,000 legal professionals operates in more than 75 jurisdictions, aimed at bringing new business value by providing integrated, multidisciplinary legal solutions to clients. From a variety of client relationship and senior leadership roles in leading global law firms, including as Country Managing Partner, Australia (DLA Piper) and Partner, Global Head of the IP, Data, Tech Group (DLA Piper) I am well versed in driving a firm’s IP, Data, Tech and Client agenda and supporting clients to navigate their most complex legal and business challenges. I established DLA Piper’s SPEAK mental health program in collaboration with Mina Candalepas (Psychologist) and was a founding member of DLA Piper’s Global MH Steering Committee working to raise awareness and help drive positive system change across the business. I also currently serve as Chair of Minds Count Foundation and a former Board member of the business-led, expert-guided Corporate Mental Health Alliance chaired by Stephen Worrell, CEO Microsoft Australia. I am also a strong advocate for the advancement of women to leadership positions. I served as Chair of DLA Piper’s global Leadership Alliance for Women (LAW) initiative.