Together, we’ll create an open exchange of ideas, where every voice adds to the conversation, helping you and your peers grow and gain valuable, personalized guidance. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your career through this exchange of shared expertise!
Table 1 – MARKETING
Brand, Reputation & the Bottom Line: Why Marketing Matters to Everyone
A firm's reputation is no longer shaped solely by referrals or its website. AI-powered search, social media, online reviews, and every client interaction now influence how prospective clients evaluate and choose legal counsel. This discussion explores how marketing, business development, and client experience are converging to strengthen brand, build trust, and drive sustainable growth. From Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) and thought leadership to client service and AI-enabled engagement, discover how every department contributes to the firm's reputation and bottom line.
Moderator:
Lisa Hegedus | Director - Marketing & Client Development, Houser Henry & Syron LLP
Table 2 – HR
The Talent Tug-of-War: Recruiting & Retaining Top Legal Talent
The war for talent in the legal industry shows no signs of easing — and with Ontario's new pay transparency laws now in effect (requiring salary ranges in job postings), the game has changed. From creative recruitment strategies to retention programs that actually work, this table digs into what it takes to build — and keep — a strong team in a more transparent market.
Moderator:
Katherine Mather | Director - HR, Koskie Minsky LLP
Table 3 – HR
DEI Beyond the Checkbox: Making Inclusion Stick
Diversity, equity, and inclusion programs are evolving — and facing new pressures. This candid conversation explores what is actually moving the needle at your firm, how to keep momentum when fatigue sets in, and how Ontario's regulatory landscape shapes your approach.
Moderator:
Isabelle Naraine | Director - HR & Operations, Lenczner Slaght LLP
Table 4– HR
Burnout Is Not a Badge of Honour: Building a Culture of Wellbeing
Mental health, burnout, and workplace wellbeing have moved beyond being employee benefits conversations; they are now critical business priorities impacting retention, productivity, and firm performance. As firms navigate evolving expectations around flexibility, technology, and workplace culture, leaders are rethinking how they create environments where people can perform at their best. This discussion explores practical, measurable approaches to supporting wellbeing, strengthening leadership practices, and building a resilient culture where employees and firms can thrive.
Moderator:
Ava Isaacson | Director - Team Development, Sherrard Kuzz LLP
Table 5 – TECHNOLOGY
Fort Knox or House of Cards? Cybersecurity for Law Firms
With cyberattacks increasing 18% year-over-year, ransomware attacks up 48%, and one in five law firms hit by a breach in the past year, cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue. It is a client trust and ethical obligation. From AI-driven deepfakes targeting junior lawyers to supply chain attacks through file-sharing platforms, discuss how your firm is fortifying its defences.
Moderator:
Brandon Chatwell | IT Manager, Olthuis Kleer Townshend LLP
Table 6 – TECHNOLOGY
AI at Your Firm: Successes, Challenges and Possibilities?
AI is rapidly changing how law firms work, from research and drafting to client service, billing and business operations. Discuss where AI is delivering real value, which tools are making an impact, and how firms are navigating confidentiality, ethics and security while preparing for the opportunities and challenges ahead.
Moderator:
Dominic Smith | Director - IT, Koskie Minsky LLP
Table 7 – FINANCE
Show Me the (Right) Money: Modernizing Law Firm Billing & Pricing Strategies
With legal clients demanding greater value and AI rapidly transforming the delivery of legal services, pricing strategy has become a key driver of both client satisfaction and firm profitability. Explore practical approaches to alternative fee arrangements, value-based pricing, and innovative billing models that meet evolving client expectations while supporting sustainable growth.
Moderator:
Tom Wolfenden | Finance Manager, Barriston Law
Table 8 – FINANCE
Crystal Ball Budgeting: Financial Forecasting in an Unpredictable Market
With law firm technology investments increasing by an average of 9% over the past year, financial planning has become more complex and strategic than ever.
Moderator:
Session 1: Leah Halpenny | Chief Operating Officer, Green and Spiegel LLP
Session 2: Brigitte Mulder | Director - Finance, Beard Winter LLP
Table 9 –OPERATIONS
Space Odyssey: Rethinking the Physical (and Virtual) Workplace
Hybrid work is here to stay, and office footprints continue to shrink — but the conversation is evolving beyond just "how many days in the office." From right-sizing your real estate to creating intentional collaboration spaces, explore how firms are redesigning the workplace experience for a new era.
Moderator:
Dawn Millar | Chief Operating Officer, Pape Salter Teillet LLP
Table 10 –OPERATIONS
Running Lean, Staying Resilient: Streamlining Operations & Managing Crisis
Law firms are under increasing pressure to do more with less while remaining prepared for disruption. From automation and AI-driven workflows to business continuity, cybersecurity and crisis response, discuss how firms are improving efficiency, reducing operational risk and building processes that can withstand the unexpected.
Moderator:
Brad Keenan | Administration, Littler LLP