Gowling WLG Executive and Leadership Team

Stephen McKersie, the Chief Executive Officer at Gowling WLG, directs the overarching strategic vision for the multinational law firm. By aligning legal expertise with client needs across Canada, the UK, and Asia, the Chief Executive Officer ensures consistent growth and market relevance. Stephen McKersie manages high-level relationships with global partners to maintain the firm's competitive edge in complex legal landscapes. This leadership role involves driving firm-wide initiatives that prioritize innovation and service quality. Through rigorous oversight of international expansion, the Chief Executive Officer secures the firm's position as a leader in the legal sector. McKersie fosters a culture of collaboration that spans multiple continents, ensuring that the firm remains agile in response to evolving regulatory environments. By focusing on long-term sustainability and operational excellence, the Chief Executive Officer strengthens the firm's reputation for delivering exceptional legal outcomes for diverse clients worldwide.

Claire Duckworth, the Chief Financial Officer at Gowling WLG, manages the fiscal health and financial strategy of the multinational organization. Overseeing global budgeting, financial reporting, and capital allocation, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the firm maintains robust economic stability across all international offices. Claire Duckworth directs the financial planning processes that support the firm's expansion into new markets, including the Middle East and continental Europe. This role involves collaborating with the executive team to optimize resource distribution and enhance profitability. By implementing sophisticated financial controls, the Chief Financial Officer mitigates risk and supports sustainable growth initiatives. Duckworth monitors economic trends to provide actionable insights that guide investment decisions and long-term planning. Through precise management of fiscal operations, the Chief Financial Officer enables the firm to invest in talent and technology, ultimately securing the financial foundation necessary for delivering high-quality legal services to a global client base.

Claire Penney, the Chief Operating Officer at Gowling WLG, manages the day-to-day operational infrastructure that supports the firm's global legal practice. Overseeing internal systems, technology integration, and administrative efficiency, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that all offices function as a cohesive unit. Claire Penney directs the implementation of scalable processes that enhance service delivery across Canada, the UK, and international hubs. This role involves optimizing operational workflows to improve productivity and client satisfaction. By leading initiatives that modernize firm infrastructure, the Chief Operating Officer supports the firm's ability to handle complex legal matters with precision. Penney collaborates with department heads to ensure that operational resources align with the firm's strategic objectives. Through the continuous improvement of internal procedures, the Chief Operating Officer drives operational excellence, ensuring that the firm remains well-equipped to meet the demands of a diverse and growing international client base.

Stephanie Davies, the President at Gowling WLG, leads the firm's market-facing initiatives and strengthens the brand's presence in key global regions. By focusing on business development and client engagement, the President ensures that the firm's legal services meet the specific needs of international markets. Stephanie Davies directs the growth strategy for the firm's practice areas, fostering relationships with major corporate clients and stakeholders. This role involves overseeing the firm's reputation management and ensuring that the brand remains synonymous with high-quality legal counsel. By driving initiatives that expand the firm's reach in the Middle East and Asia, the President secures new opportunities for collaboration and revenue growth. Davies works closely with the executive team to define the firm's market position and long-term competitive strategy. Through active leadership in client-facing activities, the President enhances the firm's influence and ensures that the organization remains a preferred partner for complex legal challenges.

Shannon O'Brien, the Chief of Staff at Gowling WLG, coordinates executive operations and facilitates communication across the firm's leadership team. By managing strategic projects and streamlining internal processes, the Chief of Staff ensures that organizational goals remain aligned with the firm's mission. Shannon O'Brien oversees the execution of key initiatives that bridge the gap between administrative functions and legal practice areas. This role involves managing complex workflows and ensuring that the executive office operates with maximum efficiency. By acting as a central point of contact for senior leadership, the Chief of Staff drives cross-departmental collaboration and maintains focus on critical business priorities. O'Brien monitors the progress of firm-wide objectives, providing the necessary support to ensure timely delivery of strategic outcomes. Through meticulous organization and proactive problem-solving, the Chief of Staff enhances the overall effectiveness of the leadership team, supporting the firm's continued success in the competitive legal industry.