I knew Michael Leathes for many years. We served together on the IMI Board for two terms and we made a productive pair. His vision to tap into the private sector to professionalize the practice of mediation was critical during these transition years of our profession. Providing accreditation of professionals and training institutions – as well as a platform for professional feedback and betterment – was transformative.
His championing of the Singapore Convention was longstanding as well.
He and I then worked for a year re-establishing the Global Pound Conference in London – bringing in our networks of colleagues to form a working group. It was a huge success, with every aspect influenced by Michael’s passionate commitment and infectious enthusiasm for our work as Mediation champions.
Michael was also active behind the scenes, mentoring and engaging with a wide range of practitioners around the globe. His unshakeable loyalty and invariable kindnesses were legion and impactful – across many cultures and jurisdictions, even industry groups.
He made a great impact – and was always setting a high bar for collegiality and self-deprecation.
I respected, liked, and benefitted from this gentleman’s life’s work post private sector – and so did countless others. His legacy lives on in his impactful contributions to our ADR Sector.