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The 2026 Conference Committee is hard at work crafting a dynamic and inspiring program designed to deliver maximum value for every attendee. Expect engaging keynote speakers, practical educational sessions across all management disciplines, and plenty of networking opportunities.
We can’t wait to share what’s in store — stay tuned as details unfold.
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM HCC: Level 3 | Conference Registration (Day 1) |
6:00 PM - 6:30 PM Art Gallery of Hamilton | First-Time Attendee Cocktail Reception
New to TLOMA? You’re not alone, so let’s make the most of it! This relaxed, low-key reception is designed just for first-time attendees. Come meet other newcomers, chat with TLOMA Board and Conference Committee, and ease into the event in the best way possible- with friendly faces, zero pressure and connections. You’ll walk away with familiar faces you can count on throughout the week and feel ready to dive into the conference with confidence.
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6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Art Gallery of Hamilton | Welcome Reception
It all starts here! Join fellow delegates and Business Partners for a lively reception that sets the tone for the conference ahead. Sip, snack, and say hello as the room fills with conversation, reconnections, and the buzz of what’s to come. This is your official launch point and a great time to spot exhibitors you’ll want to visit at the Trade Show - so jump in and make it count!
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7:30 PM - 10:00 PM Art Gallery of Hamilton
| Welcome DinnerJoin us Tuesday evening as we kick off the conference in style at the Art Gallery of Hamilton. This welcome dinner is your chance to connect with colleagues and meet new faces over great food and conversation, surrounded by an inspiring setting. Enjoy a relaxing evening - tomorrow night we raise the roof. Sponsor(s): Lawyers Financial and Southern Group |
7:00 AM - 8:45 AM HCC: Level 3
| Breakfast (Day 2)Start your morning with a casual breakfast among peers and Business Partners. Fuel up for the day while enjoying friendly conversation and spontaneous networking. Whether you’re planning your agenda or catching up with colleagues, breakfast provides a welcoming space to connect before the sessions begin. |
7:30 AM - 8:45 AM HCC: Level 3 | Conference Registration (Day 2) |
8:45 AM - 9:00 AM Chedoke C | Opening RemarksSpeaker(s) Detail - Ava Isaacson, TLOMA 2026 President
Ava Isaacson
TLOMA 2026 President Director of Team Development Sherrard Kuzz LLP Ava Isaacson is the Director of Team Development at Sherrard Kuzz LLP, one of Canada’s leading employment and labour law firms, representing employers. Her responsibilities include recruiting, training, managing, supervising, coaching and motivating the support team firm wide. Ava has been in the legal industry for more than 10 years, in both the public and private sectors, with a focus on employment and labour relations. Ava has a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications with a specialization in creative writing and journalism from University of Windsor, and an Ontario College Graduate Certificate in human resources management from Seneca College. She is a licensed paralegal and has obtained her CHRP certification. Ava is honoured to be selected as a member of the Board of Directors and is looking forward to tackling the exciting new challenges ahead. |
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Chedoke C
Daniel Lewis | What truly drives a law firm’s success goes far beyond billable hours. It’s the trust built between colleagues and clients, the culture that shapes how teams show up, and the systems that enable people to perform at their best. In an industry grounded in productivity and precision, performance isn’t just about outputs—it’s powered by people. And people thrive when leadership, culture, and systems are intentionally aligned. DetailsIn this high-energy, insight-driven keynote, international speaker and award-winning storyteller Daniel Lewis explores how firms can move beyond process-driven thinking to build environments where people, and performance, flourish. Designed for leaders across HR, Finance, Operations, Marketing, and Technology, this session offers practical, human-centered strategies that can be applied immediately. Because the future of law isn’t just more efficient—it’s more intentional. Key Takeaways:
Speaker(s) Detail - Daniel Lewis
Daniel Lewis
Human-Centric Workplace Culture & Sales Expert, Motivational Storyteller Author, entrepreneur, and international keynote speaker Daniel Lewis is the proud founder of the award-winning tea company T By Daniel. Daniel helps people and organizations adopt a more human-centric approach to business, leadership, and life. Dubbed "Human Caffeine" for his stage presence, his people-first outlook and bold, experiential business tactics have earned him national recognition and numerous accolades, including the 2014 Young Entrepreneur of the Year, 2016 Business Excellence Award, 2017 Top 40 Under 40 Entrepreneurs, and most recently, the 2025 Smart Speaker Award for “Best of the Stage!”. From startup and tech stages in Estonia, to customer service and sales summits in the UK, to inspiring audiences for global powerhouses like Forbes in Dubai, Daniel’s voice has resonated across the world. Along the way, he’s even shared the stage with award-winning artists like Pitbull, blending business with culture in unforgettable ways. Daniel’s success with his retail tea brand has also landed him the rare honour of serving His Majesty King Charles III during his 2017 Royal Tour to Canada. Whether serving tea to a King or ideas to a crowd, Daniel’s gift is creating unforgettable moments of connection. |
10:00 AM - 10:15 AM HCC: Level 3 | Networking Break |
The pace of change continues to accelerate, creating new tools, new technology and the pressure to keep up. This workshop is designed to give you a simple, repeatable way to help your team adopt what’s new without slowing down the work that needs to get done. You’ll learn how to build small, voluntary groups that spark momentum, how to leverage early adopters so you’re not pushing change uphill alone, and how to introduce new tools in a way that feels manageable rather than disruptive. Sponsor(s): LawStream by Streamline IT Workshop 1A DetailsYou’ll leave with a practical roadmap you can act on immediately: a structure for rolling out new ideas, a strategy for getting buyin from even the most reluctant team members, and a method for creating consistent, firmwide improvement. The goal is change without the chaos— to give you a clear, but powerful, path forward so you can inspire your firm to embrace what's next. Speaker(s) Detail - Adrian Scutti
Adrian Scutti
CEO & Owner LawStream by Streamline IT Growing up in a family that owned a small business, Adrian noticed a challenge they faced. Although, their company relied on computers, his parents were experts in their trade, not technology. They were too small to have an ‘IT guy’ on staff, so, they managed on their own. When things broke, work ground to a halt and they called in an expert to fix it. It was a constant struggle. Adrian imagined that other small businesses must have the same issue and he knew there had to be a better way. After receiving education in programming and networking, Adrian founded Streamline IT. His vision was to simplify and manage IT for small businesses. Today, Adrian’s IT company has grown to a team of over a dozen technicians. Even as the business grew, he was determined to keep the “local IT guy” customer experience while building a team with deep expertise. He passed on his vision to each new employee. As a result, personalized and attentive service has become a hallmark of their Streamline. While managing IT for clients in the legal community, Adrian noticed that law firms faced unique IT challenges. He wanted to provide a customized experience for law firms, and, developed LawStream in 2022. When not in front a computer, Adrian can be found building and renovation projects at home. He enjoys camping, travelling and playing board games with his wife, Melanie, and their two children. He loves a good game of chess with a glass of Scotch. |
In law firms, where high-performing professionals often work through stress, delayed care, or avoid seeking support altogether, the gap between what is offered and what is actually experienced can create hidden risk—impacting productivity, retention, and long-term cost. This workshop invites HR and Operations leaders to reframe benefits as more than a set of reimbursements. Instead, it explores how leading firms are treating benefits and wellness as part of a broader strategy to support employee health, strengthen culture, and improve organizational performance. Sponsor(s): Thorpe Benefits Workshop 1B DetailsParticipants will leave with a clearer understanding of:
By placing people at the centre of the benefits conversation, this session creates space for better questions about purpose, trust, and accountability—and what it takes to move from managing cost to achieving real outcomes. Speaker(s) Detail - Roger Thorpe
Roger Thorpe
President Thorpe Benefits Roger Thorpe is President of Thorpe Benefits, an integrated benefits and wellness consulting company based in Toronto since 1982. Having joined the firm in 1997 and later acquiring ownership of the company in 2005, Roger has built a team of senior consultants that understand Group Benefits inside out. Customized solutions are cost-effective, incorporate Wellness and are designed to promote employee health, maintain employee loyalty, increase retention and enhance a company’s culture and overall appeal. With deep insight into employee benefits, Roger has chosen to challenge existing benefits consulting models. Full transparency of fees and measured delivery of service is backed by a signed Service Agreement with clients. Thorpe Benefits is changing the "old-school" broker model where commissions are hidden and service is reactive. Roger is passionate about high performance living where training and improvement never stops. |
11:00 AM - 11:10 AM HCC: Level 3 | Networking Break |
11:10 AM - 12:15 PM Chedoke C | Expertise ExchangeAfter debuting this session at last year's Conference, we are bringing it back even bigger and better this year! Join us for dynamic session where you’ll engage in meaningful conversations with a moderator and peers on a current issues. With 10 different topics to choose from, this is your chance to connect with experienced professionals who understand the intricacies of law office management. In this collaborative setting, everyone’s contributions are valued—whether you’re sharing insights, exploring challenges, or seeking advice. 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! |
12:15 PM - 2:00 PM HCC: Level 3 | Lunch (Day 2)No need to slow down. Grab a delicious lunch and hit the Trade Show floor- explore, connect, and discover what’s new at your own pace. Fuel up and make the most of every moment. |
12:15 PM - 5:00 PM Chedoke A/B | Trade ShowThis is where the action is. The Trade Show brings together the tools, tech, and talent that help law firms thrive. With 50+ curated Exhibitors across human resources, technology, finance, marketing, operations and more, you’ll find inspiration in every aisle. From clever products you didn’t know existed to solutions you’ve been hunting for- this is where innovation meets what’s next. And yes, there are prizes! Every booth visit gets you closer to a win and a stronger network. View our 2026 Exhibitors here: Conference Business Partners |
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM Business Solutions Spotlight Stage
Bryan Droznes
| Cosmolex Presents: Intake Is a Growth Strategy: How AI Helps Law Firms Convert More Clients and Scale Smarter.Firm growth is shaped by more than hours billed. It starts before the first invoice, at intake. This session reframes client intake as a revenue function, not an administrative task, and shows legal administrators exactly how AI closes the gap between first contact and signed engagement. Walk away with a practical framework for streamlining intake, improving the client experience from day one, and turning an often-overlooked process into a driver of firm growth. Sponsor(s): CosmoLex Speaker(s) Detail - Bryan Droznes
Bryan Droznes
Executive Vice President & General Manager of SMB Legal ProfitSolv Bryan Droznes is Executive Vice President & General Manager of SMB Legal at ProfitSolv, overseeing CosmoLex, TimeSolv, and Rocket Matter — three leading SaaS practice management platforms serving law firms nationwide. Before leading SMB Legal, Bryan built and scaled ProfitSolv's cross-sell business and ran the accounting-vertical Mango/ImagineTime platform, giving him a cross-market view of how firms adopt and operationalize technology. |
Dexco Presents: What’s Slowing Your Firm Down (And How to Fix It)Canadian law firms are thriving — but the most successful ones share a common thread: they’ve removed the operational friction holding their teams back. Drawing on real Canadian legal market data, this session explores the tech, financial, and management trends reshaping firm efficiency. Attendees leave with a practical benchmark, a data-backed business case framework, and tools to lead the modernization conversation internally. Sponsor(s): DEXCO Corporation Speaker(s) Detail - Ryan Columb
Ryan Columb
Principal Account Manager Dexco Ryan Columb is a Principal Account Manager and Team Lead at Harris Computer, where he leads client relationships across Dexco's portfolio of Canadian law firms. Ryan works with firms of all sizes, from boutique practices to large multi-office firms, helping them navigate how to modernize their practice management, billing, and document workflows through Dexco's legacy platform Acumin and their flagship practice management solution, AcuminEvolution. Dexco, acquired by Harris Computer in 2023, has been building legal software for the Canadian market for over 50 years. |
3:00 PM - 3:30 PM Business Solutions Spotlight Stage
Nate Wiersma
| Canon Presents: Navigating AI Use in Your Firm: Three Moves for Legal Operations LeadersMost legal professionals are already using generative AI — but nearly half of firms have no AI policy, no training, and no way to verify what's reaching clients and courts. That gap is "shadow AI," and managing it lands squarely on legal operations. In this 15-minute session, Nate Wiersma, VP Sales at Supra ITS (a Canadian-owned Canon Managed IT Partner), cuts through the noise with a practical playbook: where AI is delivering real results in Canadian firms today, where firms are getting burned, and three concrete moves — See it, Contain it, Prove it — that take a firm from ungoverned AI use to a defensible, firm-wide approach. Sponsor(s): Canon Canada Inc. DetailsThe session includes a live demonstration of PumkinAI, Supra's enterprise AI platform, showing governed AI agents in action on two legal workflows: enterprise search across firm knowledge, and automated first-pass contract review — with the verification and confidentiality controls your law society expects built in. Attendees will leave with:
Speaker(s) Detail - Nate Wiersma
Nate Wiersma
Vice President - Sales, Supra ITS Canon Nathan Wiersma (Nate) is a seasoned sales and business development leader with over 15 years of experience driving growth in the cybersecurity and managed services sectors across North America and internationally. As Vice President of Sales at Supra ITS, he spearheads the company's North American go-to-market strategy, overseeing Business Development, Sales & Sales Engineering, Channel Sales, Marketing, and other strategic growth initiatives. Prior to joining Supra ITS, Nate held senior roles at eSentire and OpenText, where he specialized in international business growth in Managed Services. At eSentire, he was instrumental in scaling the company's presence in the cybersecurity services market. Nate holds a Bachelor of Economics from the University of Waterloo and an MBA, along with various cybersecurity certifications. He is passionate about building high-performing teams and delivering innovative solutions to clients. |
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Webster Lounge | Delegate & Business Partner ReceptionMingle with Business Partners and fellow delegates at this vibrant reception dedicated to connection and collaboration. Whether you’re learning about innovative products, discussing challenges in your firm, or simply enjoying good company, this reception is designed to foster meaningful conversations that benefit you long after the conference ends. |
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7:00 PM - 10:00 PM Webster Ballroom A/B/C
| Delegate & Business Partner DinnerJoin us for a night that goes well beyond swapping business cards. We’re talking great food, lively conversation, and a dance floor you’ll swear you weren’t planning to step on (no judgment - we’ve all said that before). Back by popular demand, Dancing Phil returns to blur the line between “just watching” and “why am I suddenly dancing?” Last year, the delegates kept him to ourselves - but he was just far too much fun to keep a secret. This time, everyone’s invited… ready or not. Expect energy, laughs, and at least a few questionable dance moves. Come for the networking, stay for the fun… and just assume you won’t be leaving early. Sponsor(s): MARANT Construction Limited and OutsourceIT Computing |
7:00 AM - 8:45 AM HCC: Level 3 | Breakfast (Day 3)Round two starts here. Ease into the morning with a hot breakfast, new conversations, and maybe a second coffee. Whether you’re reflecting on yesterday or planning your next session, this is the casual kickoff to another packed day. |
7:30 AM - 8:45 AM HCC: Level 3 | Conference Registration (Day 3) |
8:45 AM - 9:00 AM Chedoke C | Opening Remarks |
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Chedoke C
Liane Davey | Work has never felt heavier. Your team is logging long hours, juggling endless demands, and still struggling to keep up. Productivity is stalling, stress is peaking, and burnout is becoming the norm. If you’re thinking, “This isn’t sustainable,” you’re right. But here’s the twist: it’s not the workload that’s wearing us down — it’s the thoughtload. We’re not just overwhelmed by tasks. We’re distracted, triggered, and running on empty. The real culprit is the invisible tax on our attention, emotions, and energy. DetailsIn this eye-opening and actionable plenary, Liane Davey introduces a powerful reframe of what’s really driving burnout and disengagement. With research-backed insight, sharp perspective, and relatable stories, she unpacks the three forces behind modern thoughtload — attention overload, emotional reactivity, and energy depletion — and shares practical tools to lighten the load. You’ll learn how to:
This isn’t another time management talk. It’s a reset for the way you think, feel, and lead at work — because if we want to go further, we need to carry less. Speaker(s) Detail - Liane Davey
Liane Davey
Expert on Building Effective Teams, Improving Communication, and Increasing Leadership Effectiveness. Known as the “teamwork doctor,” Liane Davey knows how to create high-performing teams. Having worked with businesses, including Fortune 500 companies, from across the globe helping teams from the frontlines to the boardroom, she has developed a unique perspective on the challenges that teams face — and how to solve them. Her mission is to transform the way people communicate, connect, and contribute, and, using her expertise in strategy and group dynamics, she delivers the perfect combination of education and entertainment that leaders and teams need to make an immediate impact on their organizations. New York Times bestselling author of You First: Inspire Your Team to Grow Up, Get Along, and Get Stuff Done, Liane has worked with a variety of renowned businesses including Amazon, Walmart, TD Bank, RBC, Bayer, KPMG, Aviva, Maple Leaf Foods, and SONY Interactive Entertainment. She is also a regular contributor to Harvard Business Review and is sought after by media outlets, including CNN, NPR, USA Today, The Globe & Mail, and Forbes, for her expertise on increasing productivity, enhancing engagement, developing leaders, and as one client put it, “dealing with the damn drama!” Liane has a PhD in Organizational Psychology from the University of Waterloo. She is also passionate advocate for mental health and served for 12 years on the board of governors of Strong Minds, Strong Kids. |
10:00 AM - 10:15 AM HCC: Level 3 | Networking Break |
Delegation is one of the most important—and often underused—leadership skills in the workplace. When done well, it builds stronger teams, improves efficiency, and increases confidence across the board. This practical session will equip attendees with the tools to delegate effectively while maintaining accountability and high standards.
Workshop 2A DetailsAttendees will:
This session will reinforce how strong delegation drives timely, accurate, and cost-effective service delivery while building a more engaged and capable team. Speaker(s) Detail - Deborah Glatter
Deborah Glatter
Legal Educator and Management Consultant Queen’s University (Part-Time Instructor) Deborah Glatter is a lawyer and consultant specializing in delivering practical and engaging skills-based programs to professionals in law firms, corporations, and management associations. As an accredited Continuing Professional Development Provider with the Law Society of Ontario, she is recognized for consistently delivering high-quality training. Deborah also serves as an adjunct professor. She co-designed and taught a graduate diploma course in human capital management at Queen’s University. She currently teaches a skills-based course for upper-year students at Osgoode Hall Law School. Deborah’s programs cover a wide range of topics including delegation, feedback, managing up, running effective meetings, living your values, difficult conversations, preparing for and delivering performance evaluations, and mentoring. Every program is tailored to address her clients’ unique needs. Additionally, Deborah assists firms in improving their performance management processes to ensure results that actually improve performance. As a frequently invited speaker, Deborah integrates current research and thought leadership into all facets of her work, ensuring that her audiences benefit from practical, actionable strategies. |
10:15 AM - 11:00 AM Webster C | This session uses the fictional—but realistic—story of Dalton & Finch, a 20-lawyer firm on the brink of burnout and attrition, to show how firms escape chaos and achieve best-in-class profitability. Participants follow Dalton & Finch as they uncover hidden financial leaks, confront people and process dysfunction, and apply the Law Firm Profitability Matrix to reverse declining profits and talent risk. The session moves beyond theory to show how people, process, products, tools and rules work together to drive measurable profit gains—without working more hours or relying on heroics. Workshop 2B DetailsLearning Objectives
Speaker(s) Detail - Gary Allen
Gary Allen
Founder LeanLaw Gary Allen is a retired attorney and longtime legal industry executive with over 30 years of experience in midsize law firms. He has advised firm leadership teams on financial performance, billing models, and operational strategy, with a particular focus on aligning technology, processes, and profitability. His writing focuses on the business of law and the evolving role of firm administrators in driving top performance. |
11:00 AM - 11:15 AM HCC: Level 3 | Networking Break |
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM Chedoke C | AI is everywhere, but so are uncertainties. This information packed session will help answer the burning questions we all have about choosing, implementing and working with AI in our firms. This is a rapidly changing topic, and this dynamic session will address the most pressing questions we all have. Moderator(s) Detail - Brandon Chatwell
Brandon Chatwell
IT Manager Olthuis Kleer Townshend LLP Brandon Chatwell joined Olthuis Kleer Townshend in October 2021 as the IT Manager. He is responsible for supporting the partnership with strategic IT planning, managing internal firm operations, and enabling the OKT team in all areas of IT. Brandon has worked in the Legal IT industry for the last 16 years. He started his Legal career at the helpdesk of a law firm and gained firsthand knowledge into how lawyers and their staff function on a day-to-day basis. Later, he worked in Applications Support and saw how the changes made in this position affected users on a much larger scale. Brandon went to night school to earn a Certificate in Information Systems Management at Ryerson University to hone his skills and knowledge in effectively managing a law firm, and has spent the last 7 years managing law firms from the IT perspective. When Brandon isn’t in front of a computer he enjoys camping, baseball, cooking, and spending time with his family. Speaker(s) Detail - Colin LachanceColin Lachance is a frequent writer and speaker on legal AI and innovation topics, and is highly active in supporting the development of legal information and technology projects. As principal at PGYA Consulting, he assists organizations in making sense of AI. As the Innovator in Residence for 2024/2025, he designed and delivered AI programs for the Ontario Bar Association, including creating the AI Academy model for lawyer AI training, a program that expanded nationally to all Canadian Bar Association members. As founder and CEO of LawQi, Colin created an AI training program that is currently seeing accelerated adoption among bar associations, firms and other legal organizations across the US and Canada. He previously served as CEO of the Canadian Legal Information Institute (CanLII) from 2011 to 2015. In 2016 he co-founded Compass Law to acquire and build on the Maritime Law Book Canadian case law collection, and through Compass he cofounded Jurisage AI which was acquired by Clio in 2026. He has been named one of the "Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers" by Canadian Lawyer Magazine, a "Legal Rebel" by ABA Journal, a member of the Fastcase 50 class of legal innovators and visionaries, and most recently, an honoree of the American Legal Technology Awards for his work in promoting lawyer AI literacy and skill development. |
12:15 PM - 1:30 PM HCC: Level 3
| Lunch (Day 3)Pause. Recharge. Connect. This is your mid-day moment to slow down, share what you’ve learned so far, and get ready for the rest of the day all over a great meal with new and familiar faces. Grab a seat with someone new, reconnect with your team, or compare notes from that morning’s session. Sponsor(s): Inderly |
This session will shine a spotlight on the questions and challenges law office COOs are thinking about, as well as what gets them excited for the future. Led by Anthony Belmonte, this panel discussion will bring together leaders from different sizes and types of law firms to share what is keeping them up at night! Moderator(s) Detail - Anthony Belmonte
Anthony Belmonte
TLOMA 2026 Vice President Director of Human Resources Blaney McMurtry LLP As Director of Human Resources at Blaney McMurtry LLP, Anthony oversees all aspects of Human Resources Management, Facilities and legal support (law clerks and legal assistants). Anthony brings over two decades of comprehensive HR expertise to his role, acquired across diverse sectors, including the service industry, telecommunications, and for the past decade, the legal industry. He leverages these varied experiences, as well as his insights into law firm operations and the transformative potential of creativity and enthusiasm, earned, in part, as the manager at a boutique start-up law firm which he managed for 7 years, growing from 7 individuals to over 50 during his tenure there. Anthony is a Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL) through Human Resources Professional Association and a member of The Law Office Management Association (since 2014). His commitment to HR and the legal profession stems from his dedication to enhancing operational efficiency within law firms while fostering the professional development and growth of its firm members. Anthony firmly believes that success in the legal industry is dependent on prioritizing the well-being and nurturing the professional growth of its people. In addition to his professional endeavors, Anthony is actively engaged within the legal community. He was the 2024-2025 Human Resources Special Interest Group Leader at The Law Office Management Association (TLOMA), demonstrating his commitment to sharing knowledge and fostering professional development within the legal industry. He previously served the TLOMA membership as a member of the Nomination Committee for multiple years. Beyond his professional and community engagements, Anthony is committed to philanthropy. He leads his firm’s charitable efforts in support of local Toronto communities and families. He is an avid walker and loves exploring Toronto (and cities worldwide). Speaker(s) Detail - Claudia BessantClaudia Bessant is the Chief Operating Officer at Lenczner Slaght, widely recognized as Canada’s leading litigation practice and known for handling complex, high-profile disputes. As a member of the firm's Management Committee, she oversees the firm's finance operations, financial planning and analysis, pricing, human resources, information technology, and office services teams, working closely with firm leadership to advance strategic priorities and operational excellence. Claudia is a Chartered Professional Accountant with more than 20 years of experience in finance, operations, and business transformation. Prior to joining Lenczner Slaght, she held leadership roles at Deloitte, where she led large-scale initiatives including enterprise systems implementations and major operational projects. Known for her collaborative and data-driven leadership style, Claudia is passionate about developing strong teams, creating efficient and scalable processes, and helping organizations turn insight into action. Speaker(s) Detail - Doug MoodyAs Chief Operating Officer at Barriston Law, Doug Moody is directly responsible for planning and directing all aspects of the law firm’s operational policies, objectives and initiatives. Doug also provides general manager oversight and day-to-day direction to managers and senior staff regarding finance, human resources and information technology. Doug has over 34 years of experience in the Automotive Aftermarket – initially as General Manager for a growing Tire & Automotive Franchise Group and laterally as a Franchisee where Doug owned and operated several locations in Toronto and Barrie. Prior to entering the Automotive Aftermarket, Doug spent several years with Ernst & Young in Toronto as a Staff Accountant. Doug has an Honors Business Degree from the Richard Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario. Speaker(s) Detail - Imran PervaizImran is the Chief Executive Officer at SimpsonWigle LAW overseeing both the Hamilton and Burlington offices. He is a CA, CPA in Ontario, and a licensed CPA in the U.S. His prior leadership roles include Amazon, OMERS Pension Fund & PricewaterhouseCoopers, and has successfully scaled companies from startup to IPO. |
2:30 PM - 2:45 PM HCC: Level 3 | Networking Break |
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM Webster A
Scott Gabdullin
| Marketing isn’t just for the marketing department. In today’s legal landscape, every role in a firm has the opportunity to drive growth and demonstrate measurable value. In this practical, hands-on session, Scott will break down what actually works right now in professional services marketing. From understanding which types of posts generate the strongest engagement, to using the latest tools to uncover client-driven content ideas, attendees will walk away with actionable strategies they can apply immediately. Sponsor(s): Jelly Marketing Workshop 3A DetailsDesigned for partners, associates, office managers, and firm administrators alike, this session will explore:
Whether you're looking to expand your responsibilities, support your firm’s marketing efforts, or position yourself for greater leadership (and compensation), this session will provide practical ideas you can implement right away. Speaker(s) Detail - Scott Gabdullin
Scott Gabdullin
Scott Gabdullin is Canadian entrepreneur, marketer and investor with a proven track record of turning the trickle of prospects into a roaring cascade of business opportunities. His expertise isn’t just in understanding the funnel, but in optimizing and expanding it, ensuring businesses not only compete but thrive. |
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM Webster C
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Law firm managers are often expected to carry enormous operational responsibility without all the formal training in the regulatory, financial, compliance, and leadership realities of running a law firm. Led by law firm operations expert, Elisabeth Folk and the LSO’s Director of Practice Supports and Resources, Phil Brown, this session is designed to close that gap.
Workshop 3B DetailsBehind every successful law firm is an invisible operational infrastructure that keeps the business functioning, compliant, profitable, and sustainable. Yet many office managers and administrators inherit critical responsibilities with little guidance, limited resources, and a constant expectation to “just figure it out.” In this practical and candid session, we’ll explore the operational, financial, compliance, and leadership knowledge that Ontario law firm managers are expected to know, but are rarely formally taught. Speaker(s) Detail - Elisabeth Folk
Elisabeth Folk
Business Operations Specialist T: (416) 909-9374 Elisabeth Folk is a Business Operations Specialist with SGI and a seasoned law firm management professional with more than 30 years of experience in the legal industry, including 26 years in leadership and management roles. Working with small to medium sized law firms, Elisabeth helps firms strengthen the operational foundations that support growth, performance, and exceptional client service. Her expertise spans human resources, accounting, technology, facilities management, and the day-to-day systems that enable law firms to operate effectively and efficiently. A Certified Human Resource Leader (CHRL), Elisabeth is an active member of both the Law Office Management Association (TLOMA) and the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA). She is passionate about helping firms navigate operational complexity, build strong teams, and create environments where lawyers and staff can thrive. Known for her practical, people-centered approach, Elisabeth brings real-world insight and decades of experience to conversations about the business of law. Speaker(s) Detail - Phil Brown
Phil Brown
Director of Practice Supports and Resources Phil is the Director of Practice Supports and Resources at the Law Society of Ontario. He previously served as Senior Counsel. Phil attended Dalhousie University and practiced criminal law as a sole practitioner for many years. In his current role, he oversees the Practice Management Helpline, which handles +12,000 calls annually from lawyers and paralegals. His team is also responsible for maintaining 300 resources designed to assist legal professionals in their practice. Phil developed a popular series of technology podcasts with David Whelan and is a frequent speaker on ethics and professionalism. He has a particular interest in the intersection of technology, AI and the impact on the future practice of law. |
3:30 PM - 3:45 PM HCC: Level 3 | Networking Break |
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM Chedoke C
Mike Downie | For more than three decades, award-winning filmmaker Mike Downie has explored the power of storytelling across Canada and around the world. His work uncovers untold histories, celebrates unsung heroes, and reveals what makes a story truly resonate. In his recent acclaimed film No Dress Rehearsal, Downie examined how Gord Downie and The Tragically Hip built a lasting connection with Canadians through their music. At the core of his work is a central question: how do we tell Canada’s story, and what impact does it have beyond the surface? DetailsIn this closing keynote, Downie connects that idea directly to Beyond the Billable. He explores how the most meaningful work, whether in film, business, or leadership, goes deeper than outputs and transactions. It is about connection, purpose, and the stories we choose to tell. Drawing on behind-the-scenes experiences, he shares what makes a story powerful, how individuals and organizations can find their voice, and why it matters now more than ever. Grounded in personal insight and real-world lessons, this talk challenges you to think bigger about your impact, your influence, and the legacy you are building beyond the billable. Speaker(s) Detail - Mike Downie
Mike Downie
Mike Downie is a celebrated documentary filmmaker and philanthropist. Most recently, he directed and produced The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal, a powerful exploration of the band’s legacy and its deep connection to Canada’s cultural identity. It premiered at TIFF 2024, where it won the prestigious People’s Choice Award for Documentary, and recently won seven Canadian Screen Awards. Downie is also the co-founder of the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund, the largest reconciliation fund in the country, and, along with his brother, Gord, created Secret Path, the groundbreaking multimedia project that tells the tragic story of Chanie Wenjack. Through his work and speaking engagements, he inspires audiences to embrace storytelling as a means of connection, change, and creating cultural identity. Downie’s work has earned multiple Canadian Screen Awards, including the prestigious Donald Brittain Award for Best Social/Political Documentary. His other award-winning documentaries include Invasion of the Brain Snatchers, The Hockey Nomad, One Ocean, and The Covid Cruise, all of which showcase his ability to tell compelling, wide-ranging stories. Downie’s keynotes weave personal storytelling with powerful insights, drawing from his experiences growing up in a small town, working in a northern mine, and traveling the world as a filmmaker. His talks resonate with audiences looking for inspiration, authenticity, and a deeper understanding of the stories that shape us. With a background spanning science, economics, and adventure — including time as a deep shaft miner, medical researcher, and windsurfing instructor — Downie brings a unique perspective to every stage. He holds a Bachelor of Science with Honours from Queen’s University, and an MBA from York University’s Schulich School of Business. |
Closing RemarksSpeaker(s) Detail - Anthony Belmonte, TLOMA 2026 Vice President
Anthony Belmonte
TLOMA 2026 Vice President Director of Human Resources Blaney McMurtry LLP As Director of Human Resources at Blaney McMurtry LLP, Anthony oversees all aspects of Human Resources Management, Facilities and legal support (law clerks and legal assistants). Anthony brings over two decades of comprehensive HR expertise to his role, acquired across diverse sectors, including the service industry, telecommunications, and for the past decade, the legal industry. He leverages these varied experiences, as well as his insights into law firm operations and the transformative potential of creativity and enthusiasm, earned, in part, as the manager at a boutique start-up law firm which he managed for 7 years, growing from 7 individuals to over 50 during his tenure there. Anthony is a Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL) through Human Resources Professional Association and a member of The Law Office Management Association (since 2014). His commitment to HR and the legal profession stems from his dedication to enhancing operational efficiency within law firms while fostering the professional development and growth of its firm members. Anthony firmly believes that success in the legal industry is dependent on prioritizing the well-being and nurturing the professional growth of its people. In addition to his professional endeavors, Anthony is actively engaged within the legal community. He was the 2024-2025 Human Resources Special Interest Group Leader at The Law Office Management Association (TLOMA), demonstrating his commitment to sharing knowledge and fostering professional development within the legal industry. He previously served the TLOMA membership as a member of the Nomination Committee for multiple years. Beyond his professional and community engagements, Anthony is committed to philanthropy. He leads his firm’s charitable efforts in support of local Toronto communities and families. He is an avid walker and loves exploring Toronto (and cities worldwide). |
6:00 PM - 10:30 PM | Delegate Dinner
Join us Thursday evening for our delegate dinner at The Diplomat as we bring the conference to a close. Think great food, relaxed conversation, and a chance to connect one last time after the last few days of learning, networking, and raising the bar (and possibly the roof).
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