Pierre Johannessen

Pierre Johannessen is a dynamic Partner at Johannessen Legal, known for his fervent commitment to litigation and human rights advocacy. With a distinguished career steeped in community engagement and legal excellence, Pierre has established himself as a transformative figure within both the legal field and the broader society. Recognised as a former Australian Youth Ambassador for Development and a recipient of the Young Australian of the Year award, his accolades, including the University of Canberra Chancellor's Distinguished Young Alumni award, attest to his impact and dedication. Pierre's extensive experience spans numerous leadership roles. As the Chief Executive Officer of Big Bang Ballers International, he uses basketball to combat youth poverty and social disadvantage globally. His tenure as a Partner at Young Wolf Management further highlights his versatility and leadership acumen. His previous roles have included Practice Manager at a boutique firm in Canberra and Director at Johannessen & Gass, where he honed his expertise in legal practice management. His legal journey began with foundational roles such as a Legal Clerk, where he was involved in drafting contracts and conducting legal research. His insightful contributions as a speechwriter and policy advisor to Senator Gary Humphries saw him delve into areas like homelessness, immigration, and human rights, providing strategic policy initiatives and analyses. Pierre holds a Bachelor of Laws from the University of New England and a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice from the Australian National University. He has also enriched his legal education through international exposure, completing studies focused on international criminal and human rights law at the University of Georgia and engaging in a comparative law program at the University of Paris I: Panthéon-Sorbonne. His academic background is complemented by his role in student societies, underscoring his commitment to leadership and advocacy from an early age. Balancing his legal pursuits with a passion for sports, Pierre continues to serve as a Head Basketball Coach at the Australian National University, showcasing his multifaceted skill set and dedication to mentorship. His career is marked by a dedicated pursuit of justice and equity, making him a standout figure in both the legal profession and the communities he serves.