Michelle Richardson
Executive Officer
Michelle Richardson is Pearce IP’s Executive Officer, supporting the firm’s leadership team and contributing to the continued growth and success of the practice. With extensive experience supporting executives, managing operations and coordinating complex business environments, Michelle brings a wealth of organisational expertise, professionalism and a people-focused approach to her role.
Michelle has held a range of executive support, office management and practice management positions across professional services, government and legal environments. Prior to joining Pearce IP, Michelle spent two years with Kiama Municipal Council as Executive Assistant to the Mayor, Chief Executive Officer and Councillors, gaining valuable experience in governance, stakeholder engagement and high-level administrative support.
Michelle’s legal sector experience includes working as a Personal Assistant at Freehills, before joining Harmers Workplace Lawyers to support Michael Harmer in establishing and managing the practice. This experience has given Michelle a strong understanding of the demands of professional services environments and the importance of delivering exceptional support to clients and teams.
Michelle holds a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Sociology, from the University of Wollongong. Earlier in her career, Michelle spent four years in Zimbabwe establishing and managing a children’s orphanage, an experience that reflects her strong commitment to community, resilience and making a meaningful difference.
About Pearce IP
Pearce IP is a privately owned/independent, specialist, life-sciences focussed, intellectual property/law firm offering lawyers and attorneys in Australia and New Zealand.
Our lawyers and attorneys specialise in pharma, biopharma, biotech, ag-tech, food-tech, med-tech, although our work is broader than these industries.
In 2025, Pearce IP was honoured by Australasian Lawyer and New Zealand Lawyer as a Top Specialist Firm, 5 Star Employer of Choice, and the “Standout Winner” for Inclusion and Culture (<100 employees). Pearce IP and its leaders are ranked in every notable legal directory including: Chambers & Partners, Legal 500, IAM Patent 1000, IAM Strategy 300, MIP IP Stars, Doyles Guide, WTR 1000, Best Lawyers, WIPR Leaders, Best Law Firms, among others.
Pearce IP is the only leading IP firm in Australia and New Zealand with a female founder, and is certified by WEConnect International as women owned.
OUR VISION
By 2027, be the premier life sciences IP practice in
Australia and New Zealand.



