Proven, trusted leadership: Elizabeth Williams assumes the role of Calgary Office Managing Partner

Leading business law and intellectual property lawyer Elizabeth Williams is named Calgary’s new office Managing Partner. Ms. Williams is the first woman to assume that role in the over one hundred years since the firm established a presence in Calgary.

"For many years, Elizabeth has held leadership positions, including as a member of the Canadian management committee and the global executive committee, which will serve her well in this important role," said Charles Hurdon, Canadian Managing Partner.

“I am honoured to take the helm of our Calgary office, which has been at the centre of many transactions and numerous high-stakes litigation matters in Alberta for years. Our highly talented and respected legal team provides strategic insight and counsel for clients to navigate an exciting new era of energy transition, technological advancements, and increasing awareness of our social responsibility,” said Elizabeth Williams.

Ms. Williams is a “home-grown talent” and has spent her entire career with Norton Rose Fulbright. An inclusive and innovative leader, Ms. Williams works with colleagues to advise clients in M&A transactions, complex licensing and IP commercialization matters and portfolio monetization. Her vision for the role of managing partner is focused on strengthening and expanding our client relationships, supporting the Calgary office in key priority areas, including sector diversification, continued high performance, community engagement and relationship building through the alumni network. She will also work closely with Calgary colleagues and champion the firm’s efforts in obtaining its Progressive Aboriginal Relations Certification.

A native Albertan, Ms. Williams continues to give back to her community through her work on key pro bono files, including the Women in Need Society, United Way, and the Calgary Food Bank. She has contributed to the firm’s Global Diversity and Inclusion Committee and is committed to advancing the firm’s goals in that area.

Ms. Williams will maintain her practice and lead the Calgary office during an exciting time when energy transition, data and cybersecurity and the focus on environmental, social and governance topics are top of mind for companies. She will assume the role on September 1, succeeding current Managing Partner Roger Smith, who has made significant contributions to the office and firm during his time in leadership.