The International Mediation Institute (IMI) and the international mediation community mourn the loss of Michael Leathes, an extraordinary colleague, founding father, mentor, and friend whose contributions have profoundly shaped the dispute resolution field, worldwide.

As in-house counsel in leading international corporations, Michael was a frequent user and advocate of mediation services. After retiring in 2007, he had an instrumental role in the establishment of the International Mediation Institute (IMI), where he served in a pro bono capacity as IMI’s first Executive Director, and as a board director until 2015.

Humbly aware that no institution alone can do justice to Michael’s legacy, and led by his concept of mediative leadership: maximizing the value of relationships; partnering among stakeholders; and achieving the outcomes that will benefit all, we are creating a joint memorial page that honours his memory, where contributions and testimonials from around the world can be posted.

So many people have been touched by Michael’s work and kind, gracious personality. So many institutions have been built and strengthened by his far-reaching vision, which transcended borders and cultures. We trust that the sharing of our memories of Micheal, his ideas, and his unique approach will further inspire us and the entire mediation community to collectively work together to advance the field and his legacy. 

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Thank you, Michael, for your extraordinary contributions to the mediation world. 

The family of Michael Leathes will be organising a memorial service for Michael in Oxford, United Kingdom on 14 March 2025, to remember and celebrate Michael, and to give space to reflect about the future continued impact of his work, friendship and council. For further details please see: www.michaelleathesmemorial.co.uk.