Francis is the partner that every junior associate wanted to have as their mentor. With his calm and collaborative leadership style, he is able to listen and connect with multiple stakeholders from different backgrounds, thoughtfully analyze and assess their priorities and then deliver on their requirements within the expected timeframe. While doing this, he engages with his team in the same manner — quickly evaluating strengths in individuals in order to provide opportunities for growth, while at the same time identifying areas that require support in order to help each member thrive. With his warm personality, mentorship is second nature. He has a genuine interest in supporting the success of his colleagues, even when they have left his team. Without a doubt, these same qualities mean Francis is well-placed as a coach to work through complex issues, and unlock the full potential of those he works with.
Athar K. Malik
Partner, Clark Wilson LLP, Vancouver
I am fortunate to have worked not once but twice with Francis in my career. During my second stint, he was my direct manager, and I found his management and leadership style to be thoughtful, inclusive and inspiring. Francis had to deal with many different personalities and high pressure situations and always personified grace under pressure, with an ability to cut out the noise and focus on the end game. He also possesses a gift of instilling belief and confidence in your abilities, enabling me and others in his charge to grow professionally as well as personally.
Brenda D’Cruz
Director of Legal, Intellectual Property and Business Affairs, APAC, Sony Interactive Entertainment, Singapore
Francis is one of the most talented professional executive leaders I have had the privilege of working with. He has a special ability to bring the best out of his team and empower them to perform at their best.
He is a steadfast leader who is dependable, reliable and unwavering. He always leads and champions the team to stay on the path for success. Francis and his empathetic management style gained a lot of trust across the organisation we worked at and with the people who interacted with him. His ability to stay emotionally connected yet provide an impartial viewpoint will support any person seeking personal growth and career success.
His great sense of humour and approachability and his experience across many countries will enable any organisation or person who would like to thrive and build a diversified and multi-cultural foundation for a successful career.
Cindy Chow
Chief Financial Officer for the Shangri-la Group in Hong Kong
I worked at the same law firm as Francis for several years. Francis led a successful practice representing high-profile clients, and I was fortunate to have Francis as my mentor. In fact, all of the Associates sought out opportunities to work on Francis’ files. As a leader and coach, Francis generously shares his experience and knowledge. He perfectly balances his expectations for excellence with his ever-present support. The result is inspired performance. Put simply, Francis brings out the best in people.
Francis’ mentorship did not end when we each pursued our next respective career opportunities. He has and will continue to be a trusted sounding board and source of encouragement.
Dana Siddle
Partner, McCarthy Tetrault LLP, Vancouver
I’ve had the privilege to be mentored and coached by Francis for over 10 years. Francis is a thoughtful, kind, and caring leader who has an unmatched ability to unlock career potential in people. I lacked confidence in the first few years of practicing law, and I credit Francis with helping me to be able to overcome these challenges. Francis helped me become a better communicator with my colleagues and clients which led me to become a better overall lawyer. I always felt that he saw potential in me, even when I was doubting myself and my abilities. I am lucky to call Francis a mentor and I know I wouldn’t be where I am today in my career if it wasn’t for him. Francis always goes above and beyond and is the ideal career coach.
Josh Tarnow
Partner, Sirkin Tarnow Law in Beverly Hills, California