Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

The Law Society of Manitoba (“the Law Society”) is the independent regulator of the approximately 2,000 practicing lawyers that comprise the legal profession in Manitoba. The Law Society is mandated by statute to uphold and protect the public interest by ensuring that the delivery of legal services is done through a competent, honourable and independent legal profession.

The Law Society is governed by a volunteer Board of both elected and appointed Benchers, consisting of lawyers and public representatives, who serve as the board of directors of the Law Society. The Board governs the work of the Law Society in accordance with The Legal Profession Act. Using a policy governance model, the Board establishes the Law Society Rules and policies and it monitors the implementation and administration of programs carried out by the Law Society staff.

As the regulator of all lawyers in Manitoba, the Law Society is responsible for accrediting them, resolving client complaints, insuring them, auditing their trust accounts and providing ongoing professional education.

Position Overview
The Law Society is seeking a highly motivated individual to be its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to represent the interests of the public, oversee the advancement of the profession and lead its well respected organization into the future. The CEO of the Law Society will not only be responsible for supporting the Benchers in fulfilling their governance role, but will also be responsible for effectively managing the organization to ensure the Law Society operates smoothly and efficiently. In addition, the CEO will be expected to take on a national and international role as not only a representative of the legal profession in Manitoba but also as an advocate for the rule of law and the independence of the legal profession.

Key Qualifications
The next CEO will be a leader who:

• has a law degree or graduate degree from a recognized post-secondary institution in a related or relevant discipline;
• has 10+ years of senior executive, or equivalent, positions;
• has organizational leadership or management experience on par with the responsibilities of the CEO of the Law Society;
• has demonstrated experience and success in leading or overseeing significant projects or initiatives;
• will lead and assist in establishing effective board governance;
• has experience with financial reporting, budgeting, strategic planning and operational oversight;
• builds and maintains the public’s confidence in the Law Society and the profession and takes disciplinary action as needed;
• is the main liaison and support to the Benchers, providing timely, accurate and relevant information needed to fulfil their governance role;
• leads the development of policies that advance the profession and facilitates justice for all Manitobans;
• motivates the Law Society’s staff with clear guidance, delegation of duties, empathy and mentoring;
• ensures equity, diversity and a safe environment;
• establishes and maintains good working relationships with diplomatic skills and political acumen;
• has the ability to hear differing and contrary views from stakeholders and negotiate consensus;
• is a strategic thinker who can determine risk, trends, and opportunities that may impact on the profession and the Law Society, and develops flexible plans to meet expected strategic goals and adapt quickly to unplanned challenges;
• is a polished, clear and confident public speaker with proven media experience;
• is a thoughtful writer with the ability to prepare complex and nuanced documents that reflect the Law Society’s position and responsibilities;
• has the ability to lead a Continuing Education Program and liaise with law schools and the bar admission program;
• represents the interests of the Law Society in provincial, federal and international initiatives and discussions;
• is knowledgeable of Manitoba’s Indigenous Justice issues and is committed to the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Report, especially those relating to the legal profession; and
• maintains a position of respect and credibility, is ethical and exhibits good judgment while at all times acting with integrity.

The successful applicant may be subject to criminal, credit, civil court registry, the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy and abuse registry checks.

The Law Society of Manitoba recognizes that diverse opinions, abilities, identities, cultures and languages in our profession and workplace are a critical foundation to an effective and equitable society.

Please send your resume and cover letter to the attention of Lynda Troup, President of the Law Society, clearly explaining how you meet the above requirements by October 2, 2020.