Background/Expertise
Mark founded Ford Sumner Lawyers with Jaesen in 2005. Although retired from the partnership, he continues to work within the firm as Counsel.
Mark has developed extensive experience across corporate and commercial law over many years. From setting up new ventures, to advising on ongoing business and sales and restructuring, Mark provides outstanding support to our clients. He also has wide experience in property, government, and trade, making Mark our in-house expert in these areas.
Outside the firm, Mark also holds board positions in diverse commercial operations including the financial services sector.
Motorsport’s a passion for Mark; he was instrumental in establishing a team that went on to come second in the New Zealand Formula Toyota Series. Mark brings the same level of commitment and drive to succeed with his clients at Ford Sumner Lawyers.
Mark co-founded Ford Sumner with Jaesen in 2005 and, while retired from the partnership, continues to contribute as Counsel. With decades of experience in corporate and commercial law, Mark supports clients through every stage of their business journey, from establishing new ventures to navigating sales, restructures, and day-to-day operations.
Mark’s expertise extends to property, government, and trade, where his deep knowledge makes him an invaluable resource for clients and the firm. Beyond his work at Ford Sumner, Mark serves on the boards of several commercial operations, including in the financial services sector, bringing his strategic insight to a variety of industries.
Mark’s lifelong passion for motorsport led him to play a pivotal role in establishing a racing team that achieved an impressive second place in the New Zealand Formula Toyota Series. The dedication, strategic thinking, and drive required to succeed on the track mirror the qualities Mark brings to his work with clients. At Ford Sumner, he applies this same commitment to delivering tailored solutions and helping clients navigate complex challenges.
Professional Qualifications
- LLB (Victoria University of Wellington)
- Holder of a current practising certificate as a barrister and solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand
Memberships
- Member New Zealand Law Society
- Member Inter-Pacific Bar Association
- Member Insolvency Special Interest Group, NZ
- Member NZ Credit and Finance Institute
- Member Technology Law Society
- Past member ICANZ Commercial and Company Law Committee
"Quote about working with Jaesen, lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore. "
Glen Sharah, Body Corp Chairman (former)
News & Insight
Articles by Mark
Retentions Must Be Returned – The
Retentions under a subcontract are held on trust by the head contractor for the benefit of the subcontractor. If retentions are withheld, contingent on anything...
Court takes Uber for joyride: but
The Court of Appeal has found four drivers were employees of Uber when they were logged into the Uber driver app. While Uber was successful...
Employment Court widens the definition of
Payments may now be part of ‘gross earnings’ despite being labelled ‘discretionary’ and as such be liable for inclusion in the calculation of holiday pay....
Redundancy – Don’t Jump the Gun!
The Employment Relations Authority’s recent decision in Buckingham v St John (“Buckingham”) serves as reminder for employers to ensure their redundancy policies and procedures are sound. What...