Speak to our experts
Contents
We are delighted to announce that Kate Wilson Butler, Chapman Tripp’s Director - Climate, Sustainability & ESG, has been named in the 2025 edition of Forward 40, a prestigious global spotlight on rising stars in ESG and sustainability law.
Forward Law Review's Forward 40 recognises exceptional individuals who are shaping the future of ESG and sustainability law. Kate's inclusion is a testament to her outstanding contributions and leadership in the field.
Kate's role at Chapman Tripp is unique in the New Zealand market. She works across the firm to help clients navigate the transition to a low carbon economy and the evolving regulatory and stakeholder environment in relation to ESG. Kate brings her diverse experience as an advocate and trusted adviser across the public and private sectors – from international climate negotiations to corporate boardrooms – to support clients in this dynamic space.
Since joining Chapman Tripp in 2022, Kate has supported dozens of corporates, financial institutions, and not-for-profits on a wide range of issues, including climate and sustainability reporting, regulation, emissions target setting and transition planning, greenwashing, modern slavery, nature-related risk, and carbon markets.
Before joining Chapman Tripp, Kate was Head of Climate Action at the Sustainable Business Council, where she represented the interests of over 150 companies on climate change policy and strategy. Prior to that, she spent nine years at New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade in New Zealand and offshore, with roles including UN climate change negotiator and Private Secretary to the Minister for Climate Change.
Partner Nicola Swan commented:
Kate is central to our Climate, Sustainability & ESG practice. Her breadth of experience and depth of technical expertise provide a global perspective with commercial and practical underpinnings. Kate's appointment was a deliberate investment in expanding our leadership in ESG and sustainability law. She is a thought leader and widely recognised for her superstar quality.
Chapman Tripp is proud to have Kate as part of our team and congratulates her on this well-deserved recognition. Her inclusion in Forward 40 highlights her exceptional contributions to the field of ESG law and reinforces Chapman Tripp's commitment to supporting our clients in navigating the complexities of a changing world.
