In 2016, Ryan Hillier launched NOVAlex, the world's first “one-for-one” law firm: for every hour of paid legal services it provides to commercial clients, one hour of pro bono is offered to eligible low-income individuals, non-profits and start-ups.
Three years later, he discusses why he left his 10-year career with two national Canadian law firms to start a disruptive legal practice focused on providing premium legal services while improving access to justice.
Drawing on experiences from his own journey and examples from the broader corporate world, Ryan makes the case that adding purpose to the traditional recipe for business success is not only the right thing to do, but also gives companies a significant advantage in an increasingly competitive global market. What’s more, he concludes, given the complex social and environmental challenges we face today, the world needs purpose-driven corporations now more than ever. Equal parts business lawyer and social entrepreneur, Ryan Hillier is the chief executive officer of NOVAlex, which he co-founded in 2016 after having practiced for nearly 10 years at two national Canadian law firms. NOVAlex is the world's first "one for one" law firm: for every hour of paid legal services it provides to commercial clients, NOVAlex offers one hour of pro bono to eligible low-income individuals, non-profits and start-ups. In 2017, it became the first law firm in Quebec to receive certification as a B Corporation. Today, the NOVAlex team comprises 15 top-notch lawyers committed to reinventing the private practice of law, and continues to grow while balancing purpose and profit. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx