Ogletree Deakins Expands Presence in Canada, Welcomes Kathryn Bird as Partner

TORONTO – May 2, 2022 – Ogletree Deakins, one of the largest global labour and employment law firms representing management, is pleased to welcome Kathryn Bird as partner in the firm’s Toronto office. Prior to joining Ogletree Deakins, Kathryn was a partner with a prestigious Canadian labour and employment law firm. Her arrival to the firm signals continued growth for Ogletree Deakins’ Canadian presence.

Kathryn has more than 15 years of experience practicing employment, human rights, and labour law. Kathryn is a recognized leader in workplace law in Canada and was the winner of a Lexpert Rising Star award in 2020. Kathryn advises employers, social service providers, school boards, and municipalities regarding issues arising from the employment relationship and the provision of services to the public.  Kathryn also assists school boards, colleges, and universities with legal matters related to the provision of educational services to students.

A skilled litigator, Kathryn often appears before the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario, labour arbitrators, and at all levels of court. She has successfully defended public and private employers against a wide range of claims, including human rights allegations, long-term disability benefit claims, and wrongful dismissal actions. Kathryn also provides regular advice to employers and service providers on avoiding litigation through proactive strategic actions.

“Kathryn is a brilliant and knowledgeable lawyer, well-known for her legal ability, professionalism, and ethics in the Toronto legal community,” said Hugh Christie, managing partner of Ogletree Deakins’ Toronto office. “Her committed and personable approach to client service is closely aligned with the vision of our office and the firm at large. We are thrilled to welcome her into our talented team of lawyers in Toronto.”

Kathryn is a dedicated leader and advocate in the legal and local communities. At her former firm, Kathryn served terms on the firm’s Management, DEI, and Student Committees. She is active in the Ontario Bar Association and The Advocates Society. Kathryn frequently speaks and presents on employment law topics, human rights issues including religious and family status accommodations, and education law. Kathryn also serves as an Adjunct Professor at her alma mater, the University of Toronto.

About Ogletree Deakins

Ogletree Deakins is one of the largest global labour and employment law firms representing management in all types of employment-related legal matters. Premier client service, as outlined in the firm’s Client Pledge, is one of the firm’s top priorities and a cornerstone of its core values. U.S. News – Best Lawyers^® “Best Law Firms” has named Ogletree Deakins a “Law Firm of the Year” for 11 consecutive years. In 2022, the publication named Ogletree Deakins its “Law Firm of the Year” in the Employment Law – Management category. Ogletree Deakins has more than 900 lawyers located in 53 offices across the United States and in Europe, Canada, and Mexico. The firm represents a diverse range of clients, including many of the Fortune 50 companies in the U.S. www.ogletree.com