When ex-Clayton Utz special counsel Ben Madsen took up a partner role at Thomson Playford Cutlers he was looking for an opportunity to work in a more senior role.

"While I loved working at Clayton Utz, this was an opportunity to join a firm as a partner, build my own practice with my own clients - I though would work well for me," he said.

Madsen was also attracted to Thomson Playford Cutlers because it is a smaller firm with a collegiate atmosphere.

He previously acted on the Trans-Territory Pipeline project, expansion of Alcan's Gove mine and refinery, and Asciano's coal haulage arrangements with Rio Tinto and Xstrata.

Madsen said he left behind his clients and fellow staff but hopes to recruit a senior associate with a background in energy, resources or corporate commercial law. He will primarily work from the firm's Sydney office but regularly visit the Adelaide office.