Claire Byrne
Claire helps clients navigate employment, franchising and business law
Claire Byrne is a highly experienced commercial lawyer and strategic advisor to business owners, franchisors, franchisees, not-for-profit organisations and high net worth clients with trusts and commercial interests. With expertise across corporate and business structuring, employment law, franchising andcomplex trusts, she provides clear, practical legal guidance that helps clients grow, manage risk and navigate challenges.
As head of Gibson Sheat’s franchising practice and a senior member of the employment and commercial teams, Claire is known for her pragmatic approach to advising on shareholder agreements, business restructures, employment matters, dispute resolution and compliance. Her advice supports clients through significant transactions, organisational change and workplace matters critical to their success.
Claire is often sought out by clients facing important decisions where legal insight and commercial sense intersect. She has a talent for simplifying complex issues and delivering solutions that work in the real world.
Before joining Gibson Sheat in 2002, Claire was a partner at Harkness Henry in Waikato and held roles in the public sector, bringing a broad and practical perspective to her work.
Claire is the former Chair of Lawlink, a national network of independent law firms, and serves as a trustee of the Clare Foundation, reflecting her ongoing commitment to leadership and community.
Outside of work, Claire enjoys good food and wine, staying active, spending time with her children and grandchildren and occasionally treating herself to a bit of retail therapy.
