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FACILITYCalgary publisher Mark Kolke, in conversation with Joe Lougheed

 
November 13, 2012
 
My recent conversation with Joe Lougheed, Partner at Fraser Milner Casgrain LLP,[partners vote pending for a merger with SNR Denton and Salans, 2,500 lawyers in 52 countries in Europe, Asia and North America,  to be known as Dentron’s] over morning coffee in his Bankers Court offices in downtown Calgary.

I began our conversation with these questions -where is Alberta going, where is Calgary going, where is law practice going, where is your future going?

Joe’ answers weren’t coy or carefully calculated – immediate, clear and direct. He sees our entrepreneurial pioneering independence morphing from a ME society, to a WE society, a place of pride, of civic engagement focused on making our community and its institutions sustainable.


 
 
On the future of law practice . . .
. . . the future will always have a place for small and medium sized firms, boutiques. But, increasingly, firms like ours are going to align themselves with firms which can offer a presence, comprehensive service and bench-strength in global markets where our multi-national clients do business.
 
Why do clients choose you, your firm – over your competitors?

. . . some lawyers enjoy a transaction focused practice. I focus my efforts on investing my time with relationships that exist already – and I get a lot of satisfaction when I can connect people and organizations with resources.

What does he look for in suppliers?

. . . the firm’s management are better folks to ask that question. For myself, the best examples might be where I shop. I don’t have a body that fits slim fitting Italian suits. I shop mostly at David Colonno’s or Supreme Men’s Wear. Good quality products, people who know me. They always seem to have my size and a smile.

What does he worry about?

. . . I worry about work-life balance, spending time with my kids. And I worry about my kids. Doesn’t everybody? I worry about their future, about what will sustain their future and quality of life. I am concerned that this city, that these office towers will be full of productive businesses in an increasingly diversified success story. This is a wonderful city and province – a great place to live, work and play, but we need the economy to be healthy, and the community to be healthy to sustain our quality of life.

What about regrets Joe?

. . . I was asked to help coach my kid’s hockey team, but I can’t skate. When I was 5 my dad had just changed jobs. He was really busy and didn’t have time to teach me.

A few other things:

. . . I want to be happy, I want to be part of something bigger. 

. . . public service is important and good. I sit on a number of boards – I really enjoy making a contribution, to be part of the decision making team. 

Your influences?

. . . 40% dad, 30% mom, the rest ME.

His ride?

. . .  a 1998 Audi A4 … runs great.

Thank you Joe, for allowing me to poke around your thinking – and for taking time to share with our readers.


 
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