Lynda Townsend
Partner
Sector: Private Sector
Discipline: Legal
Year: 2014
Magic Moment: I was about to quit law after having tried several different areas of practice and I stumbled into an opportunity to represent a ratepayers group at a very contested OMB hearing. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and could see that I was more suited to the OMB than to court. I could see that municipal law would be a blend of politics, strategy and law and I found my niche.
Key Influence: Alan Cohen – Mentor at Soloway Wright – Worked with and learned many skills under his tutelage. Key lesson was to be strategic and thoughtful before taking action and to be a respectful advocate.
Hy Soloway was also a mentor in teaching me by allowing me to make mistakes.
Next Big Challenge As An Industry: Delivery on transportation solutions all of which depend firstly on effective and affordable transit. Coordination is required amongst all authorities as well as those responsible for making land use planning decisions that will enhance the use of transit. Second we need a sustainable solution to infrastructure financing properly balanced amongst stakeholders.
Secret Talent: I am an open book. No secrets.
On Championing Others… I built a law firm exclusively of women. I mentored my staff to become well-rounded lawyers including some support staff who chose to enter the field of law. I also often mentor young men and women coming into the practice.
One word that captures you: Driven