King & Wood Mallesons (KWM) has appointed corporate partner Stephen Minns as its new Australia chairman, replacing current incumbent Tim Bednall.

Corporate and M&A lawyer Minns, who is based in Melbourne, has taken over the role this week as the firm looks to adopt "new ways of thinking".

Minns (pictured) has been at KWM and its legacy firms since 1986, having previously worked in investment banking in both Sydney and London.

Among his biggest achievements at the firm include have included representing AXA Asia Pacific on its 2011 buyout by AMP and AXA, as well as advising BHP Billiton on the demerger of BHP Steel in 2002.

"The past year has been an extraordinary one for the firm," said the firm's Australia managing partner Tony O'Malley.

"The combination to create a powerhouse legal brand in the Asian region coupled with a challenging economic environment has meant that we've had to adopt new ways of thinking, and more meaningful ways of engaging with clients.

"Tim has been at the centre of this drive and I thank him for his support. Stephen's appointment will bring a seasoned insight into our business."

Bednall, who served as chairman for three years, oversaw significant changes at the firm, including the merger between legacy Chinese firm King & Wood and Australia's Mallesons Stephen Jaques.

He will continue to work in the firm's corporate, M&A and competition law practice.