As a firm committed to exploring new frontiers in pursuit of its clients’ success, Gowling WLG is delighted to welcome Al Hounsell as National Director of AI, Innovation and Knowledge in Canada.

Named the 2024 Innovative Leader of the Year by the International Legal Technology Association, Al comes to the firm with more than 10 years’ experience at the vanguard of legal innovation—driving transformation, unlocking the potential of emerging technologies and delivering solutions that test the boundaries of what’s possible.

A practising lawyer with an advanced background in full-stack software and web development, Al most recently served as Director, Strategic Innovations and Legal Design at another large international law firm. There, he led a team responsible for empowering legal departments with sophisticated artificial intelligence technology and automation tools, optimizing internal processes and workflows, and championing a culture of creative problem solving.

“Artificial intelligence promises to significantly elevate the value we deliver to clients, improving efficiency and opening the door to an array of trailblazing tools and solutions only recently thought possible. With his vision and deep experience in legal innovation and service design, Al promises to be a driving force behind our progress in this dynamic area," said Steve McKersie, CEO at Gowling WLG Canada. “We look forward to him collaborating across our departments and practices as we reimagine what’s possible for our clients.”

A respected thought leader in his field, Al currently serves as an Adjunct Professor at Osgoode Hall Law School where he teaches courses in legal innovation, artificial intelligence, design and technology. He is also an active member of the Ontario Bar Association’s AI Task Force and speaks and writes frequently on topics related to innovation and legal service design.

“I’m thrilled to join Gowling WLG, a firm with a rich history of innovation, at such a pivotal moment for our industry,” said Al. “As artificial intelligence and legal tech continue to disrupt and redefine the landscape, I look forward to working alongside our extremely talented teams to reimagine how we drive client value in an evolving world.”

About client solutions at Gowling WLG

We are dedicated to harnessing technology and developing creative legal solutions to meet the complex needs of our clients. By leveraging AI, automation, and cutting-edge legal tools, we provide efficient, tailored strategies that help our clients navigate change and seize new opportunities. Our team works across sectors to drive progress and deliver impactful results in an evolving landscape. Learn more