Indonesian law firm Makarim & Taira S has appointed Vincent Lie as its new managing partner, effective 1 May 2026. Lie, who has been with the firm for more than 11 years, will succeed Maria Sagrado.
Setting out his priorities for the first 12 months, Lie said he aimed to ensure the firm was aligned “across all practice groups and departments”, while strengthening its reputation and refining operations, including the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI).
“Externally, the priority is to reinforce our position as a trusted adviser for high-value and complex matters. This includes being more intentional in how we engage with clients, deepen relationships, and bring forward solutions that are practical and forward-looking,” he told Asia Business Law Journal.
Providing a longer-term outlook, Lie is focused on building a sustainable firm with consistent growth across all areas.
“Over the longer term, my ambition is for the firm to be recognised not only for the quality of our legal work, but for the clarity, consistency and practicality of our advice,” he added.
“I would like to see Makarim & Taira S continue to strengthen its position as a leading independent law firm in Indonesia, one that clients turn to for their most complex and strategic matters, and one that is known for delivering solutions that work in practice.”
Lie also noted that several of Makarim & Taira S’ practice areas were expected to see increased demand, driven by “regulatory change, economic transition and technological development”.
“Energy and natural resources will remain active, especially as Indonesia continues to navigate the energy transition and downstream development. This brings both investment opportunities and regulatory complexity,” he said.
He added that M&A, dispute resolution and digital economy-related services were also set for growth.
“The digital economy is another area of sustained growth, driven by data, technology, and evolving business models … We also expect continued demand in typical corporate and M&A works, particularly in restructuring, strategic investments and cross-border transactions, as businesses adapt to changing market conditions,” he said.
“In addition, dispute resolution will remain important, as periods of uncertainty often lead to more complex disputes requiring strategic handling.”
On expansion, Lie confirmed there are no immediate plans to open new offices or enter new markets.
“Our priority is to strengthen our position in the markets where we already operate and to deepen the value we deliver to our clients. We believe there is significant opportunity within our existing platform, particularly in enhancing our capabilities, strengthening client relationships, and improving how we work across practice areas,” he said.
Rather than expanding beyond Jakarta, Lie said the firm would focus “on becoming more effective, more connected and more responsive within our current market”.
