MartinJenkins is delighted to announce that Nick Russ will join the firm as a Practice Lead in February 2026, strengthening MartinJenkins’ advisory services to regulated industries across New Zealand.
Nick joins MartinJenkins from the Commerce Commission, where he is currently General Manager – Market Regulation. He brings more than two decades of regulatory experience spanning three countries, having previously held senior roles with Ofgem in the United Kingdom and the Australian Energy Regulator (under secondment).
Managing Partner Allana Coulon says the appointment reflects MartinJenkins' commitment to deepening its expertise in sectors critical to New Zealand's economic infrastructure.
"Nick is one of Australasia's most respected regulatory professionals. His experience across energy, telecommunications, and other regulated markets – combined with his practical understanding of how good regulation supports both consumers and industry – will be invaluable to our clients," says Allana.
"As New Zealand navigates significant reforms in water and energy, and seeks to increase investment in a wide range of critical infrastructure, we're proud to offer this calibre of expertise to organisations working through complex regulatory challenges that impact consumers.
“This is an area where quality of advice really matters.”
Nick says he is looking forward to applying his experience in a new context.
"After more than 20 years working within regulatory agencies, I'm excited to bring that perspective to the advisory side. MartinJenkins has a strong reputation for thoughtful, evidence-based work that genuinely improves how the public and private sectors operate," says Nick.
"I'm drawn to the firm's purpose of making Aotearoa New Zealand a better place. Good regulatory frameworks matter – they affect the prices families pay, the investments businesses make, and the resilience of essential services. I'm looking forward to contributing to that work."
Nick will be working alongside MartinJenkins' existing teams in economics, infrastructure, and public sector advisory.
