Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP (Blakes) announced today that Partner Bryson Stokes has been named Firm Managing Partner, effective January 1, 2020.
Rob Granatstein will officially retire as Firm Managing Partner at the end of 2019. He has held the position for 18 years. Rob will continue to work with the Firm to push forward key initiatives and help Bryson transition into his new role over the coming year.
“Bryson’s commitment is total, from engaging students as the future of the Firm to promoting innovation and embracing diversity and inclusion initiatives,” said Rob. “I’ve worked with him for many years and he has the rare ability to connect with professionals at all stages of their careers.”
Bryson has held a number of leadership positions since joining Blakes as an articling student. He has been Practice Group Leader of the Toronto Corporate & Commercial Group since 2011 and serves as National Practice Group Leader of the Gaming Group and Co-Practice Group Leader of the National Power Group.
Under Rob’s watch, Blakes has been recognized as a Greater Toronto Top Employer 11 times — more than any other law firm — and nine times as one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers, both by Mediacorp Canada Inc. Blakes has also been named Canada’s leading law firm brand in the Acritas Canadian Law Firm Brand five times since 2012.
Within Blakes, Rob is known for his compassion and humour. He combines pragmatism with the ability to make every person at Blakes feel valued. He has contributed tremendously to the spirit of Blakes — including by singing at the Firm’s holiday parties and fundraising for the United Way.
During his tenure, Rob played a key role in transforming Blakes into the innovative, inclusive law firm that it is today,” said Blakes Chair, Brock Gibson.
While the change in leadership will inevitably generate new ideas, some things will never change. The Firm remains dedicated to its core principles, including delivering unparalleled client service.
“We have tremendous momentum and I’m confident that Bryson is the right person to continue to drive Blakes forward,” said Brock.
