McMillan LLP hosts its annual Calgary Stampede Social, an energetic and fun western-themed gathering.Supplied
When Michael Christ started as a summer law student at McMillan LLP, he was very nervous as it was his first exposure to the corporate world, but his colleagues quickly put him at ease.
“I was so anxious. I didn’t know what to expect,” says Christ, an associate in the business law group based in McMillan’s Vancouver office. “But all that nervous energy quickly dissipated because of how much support I received. I was introduced to many people who provided me with the resources to succeed in my role.”
Christ, who returned as an articling student before becoming an associate in 2025, says that support continues today. “Now, the focus is on helping me learn how to manage my practice and build up the technical skills that I need to match the stage of my career.”
This includes McMillan Business Academy, where new lawyers gather at the Toronto office for sessions on topics such as practice management and business development. Beyond training, a formal mentorship program pairs new lawyers with more senior lawyers in the same practice area.
“In addition, people at McMillan are always open and take pride in mentoring juniors. So I have been able to build up informal mentorship relationships as well which has been amazing and pivotal in my career,” Christ says.
Christina Jacobsen, HR recruitment and employer brand coordinator in the Ottawa office of the national firm, has had a similar experience since starting as a co-op student in 2019.
“I always wanted to work at a company where it was more than a simple nine to five,” she says. “I wanted a place where people actually know each other and feel part of a community. So, what really stood out to me was the variety and types of events we host every single month throughout the year.”
These include therapy dog visits, staff appreciation activities, diversity week, pancake breakfast day and a family and firm holiday party — as well as charity initiatives including the United Way Campaign and annual food drives. During weekly Community Days, employees get together at the office for lunch and other celebrations, while affinity groups bring together employees who share common interests.
Christ is a member of the Asian Affinity Group, which focuses on initiatives empowering the Asian community in the legal profession. “McMillan is a strong advocate of the Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers and other associations,” he says. “Through the affinity group, firm members are able to pursue their passion and interests, which really exemplifies how McMillan helps us reach our full potential while maintaining a thriving professional career. That makes us feel supported and recognized and part of a community.”
Jacobsen says she also felt like this from the start. “From the beginning of my co-op, I had a seat at the table,” she says. “My ideas were listened to and respected, and I was trusted with meaningful projects like organizing lunch and learns and workplace wellness initiatives.”
Bruce Chapple, CEO and managing partner, says the firm recognizes that every member of the team brings something unique to the table. “That’s what drives us forward,” he says. “We’re committed to creating a space where people feel empowered to share ideas, learn and grow in their careers. We believe in building a workplace where collaboration and fresh thinking aren’t just buzzwords, but part of our everyday culture.”
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