Deals, Discipline, and Direction with Peter Saad

Managing Partner at Loopstra Nixon, former Shearman and Sterling associate, corporate lawyer focused on transactions and healthcare, U of T Law grad.

Peter Saad joins me to unpack a career that began in New York during the 2008 financial crisis and led to firm leadership in Canada. Peter explains how the capital markets freeze shaped his approach to execution, why soft skills determine client trust, and how bringing Wall Street level standards to Main Street delivers results. He shares insights on corporate healthcare, regulated professions, business development for lawyers, and the simple rule that respect never goes out of style.

What you will learn

• Starting practice in New York during 2008, what froze, what returned, and how to learn by doing

• The mindset behind Wall Street execution, Main Street service, and client outcomes

• Makers versus fakers, why execution wins

• Corporate healthcare deals, consolidators, and working with regulators in Canada

• Why young lawyers should read prospectuses and risk factors, not only case law

• Building a book, planting seeds, and growing with your peers

• Strategic marketing, leadership, and firm culture built on character and consistency

Keywords (SEO):Peter Saad, Loopstra Nixon, managing partner, Shearman and Sterling, New York 2008, financial crisis, capital markets, investment grade debt, Canadian law firm leadership, corporate healthcare M and A, regulated professions, transactional law, securities, client service, soft skills for lawyers, business development, build a book of business, OCIs, U of T Law, legal career advice, respectful leadership

Chapters:00:00 Intro and Peter’s journey03:10 New York in 2008, lessons from a freeze10:20 From slow to surge, learning by fire15:30 Wall Street execution for Main Street clients22:00 Makers, fakers, and the soft skills that matter28:40 Sector focus, why healthcare chose him35:20 Read the risk factors, speak business41:00 Strategic marketing, leadership, and culture48:30 Two currencies in law, hours or book55:00 Final advice for students and young lawyers

About the show
Studying Law Around the World shares global legal journeys and practical playbooks for students and early career lawyers.

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