Higgs & Johnson proudly announces significant leadership transitions, effective January 1, 2025. Mr. Philip C. Dunkley, K.C., transitions from his role as Senior Partner to Consultant, while Mr. Oscar N. Johnson, Jr., K.C., will succeed him as Senior Partner. Additionally, Mr. Sterling H. Cooke, previously Co-Managing Partner, will now serve as Managing Partner.
During his exemplary 50-year tenure at Higgs & Johnson, Mr. Dunkley held several pivotal roles, including Global Managing Partner and Chair of the Insolvency & Corporate Restructuring Practice Group. His expert handling of complex litigation and transactional matters has established him as a premier dispute resolution authority. “Mr. Dunkley’s visionary leadership has significantly influenced our firm’s growth, reputation, and success,” Mr. Johnson noted. “His commitment to values such as mentorship, honesty, integrity, and excellence has left an indelible mark on our firm’s identity, ensuring its ongoing influence and success. We are immensely grateful that Mr. Dunkley will continue to share his invaluable wisdom and insights as a Consultant.”
Mr. Johnson, who formerly led the Litigation practice, and served as Managing Partner and Global Managing Director from 2012 to June 2020, and Co-Managing Partner until 2024, expressed his honour in being elected as the new Senior Partner, stating, “I am committed to advancing Mr. Dunkley’s formidable legacy by enhancing our client service and the overall delivery of our legal services.”
Mr. Cooke, reflecting on the leadership transitions, praised the dedication and impact of both Mr. Dunkley and Mr. Johnson: “Their exceptional leadership, marked by unparalleled dedication, courage, commitment, passion, perseverance, and loyalty, have created a culture of excellence that inspires all of us to strive for greater heights.”
Having served as Co-Managing Partner and as Chair of the Real Estate and Development Practice Group, Mr. Cooke is well-positioned to assume the management of the Firm’s day-to-day operations. “I accept the role of Managing Partner with great honor and humility,” he stated. “With spiritual guidance and the support of my Partners, I am committed to leading our Firm towards a future of sustainable progress, operational excellence and success.”
Both Mr. Johnson and Mr. Cooke bring over 70 years of combined experience to their new roles, recognized as leaders in their fields by top legal directories.
Higgs & Johnson consistently ranks as a top-tier firm in independent global legal directories. The Firm is dedicated to delivering exceptional client service by providing commercially astute, timely, and reliable legal advice, always striving to surpass client expectations. The recent leadership transitions at Higgs & Johnson are strategically implemented to maintain the Firm’s esteemed position as a leading provider of legal and professional services, both domestically and internationally.