Justin Kates: From the Tennis Court to the Boardroom

A Competitive Edge That Translates Beyond Sports

Justin Kates knows what it takes to win—on and off the court. Long before becoming Managing Partner at DuMoulin Black, one of Canada’s leading securities law firms, he learned the discipline and focus that now define his leadership style through years of competitive tennis.

“Tennis gave me determination, grit, and discipline,” Kates says. “Those lessons have allowed me greater success in all facets of my life.”

From his days competing in NCAA Division I tennis at Western Michigan University to earning an ATP world ranking in 2014, Kates carried forward the habits that separate good players from great ones: preparation, precision, and perseverance.

From Associate to Managing Partner

Kates’ career at DuMoulin Black began more than 14 years ago, when he joined as a junior associate. Through consistent performance, sound judgment, and a commitment to his clients, he climbed the ranks to become Partner—and eventually Managing Partner.

“It was an honour to be elected as Managing Partner,” he says. “It’s a position that I’m deeply passionate about because it allows me to build and develop our team and shape our firm’s core values.”

Under his leadership, DuMoulin Black has continued to grow its reputation as one of Canada’s top firms. The Globe and Mail recognized it as one of the country’s leading law firms in 2024, and several of its lawyers have been named among Canada’s best.

Kates’ own track record reflects that excellence. He has been recognized by Best Lawyers in Canada for mergers and acquisitions since 2021, was named a Lexpert Rising Star in 2019, and was selected by the TMX as one of Canada’s “Next 150: Young Entrepreneurs and Forward-Thinkers” in 2017.

Building Leaders, Not Just Lawyers

What stands out most about Justin Kates isn’t just his legal expertise—it’s his focus on people.

“I’ve always enjoyed developing talent,” he explains. “My role gives me the opportunity to be hands-on in building our team and creating an environment where everyone can thrive.”

He believes strong leadership is about more than technical skill. It’s about empathy, listening, and sound judgment. “Strong judgment, sharp critical thinking, and high integrity are essential,” he says. “But you also need to be empathetic—to accurately understand both client and team needs.”

That mindset has shaped DuMoulin Black’s culture. Kates encourages a collaborative environment where emerging lawyers are supported and challenged to think strategically. His approach blends mentorship with autonomy, giving young professionals the confidence to lead early in their careers.

Passion for Business and the Venture Markets

Kates has carved out a niche in securities, corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate law—especially within the venture public markets. It’s a space he’s passionate about because it allows him to work closely with entrepreneurs on innovative transactions.

“I enjoy working with entrepreneurs on novel deals across cutting-edge industries,” he says. “It’s exciting to help bring new ideas to life and see how these ventures can grow into something impactful.”

That entrepreneurial energy mirrors his own drive. Kates doesn’t just see legal work as paperwork—it’s about building value, helping businesses grow, and guiding them through complex transitions.

Lessons in Focus and Balance

Outside the office, Kates still finds time to compete—this time on the tennis court rather than in the boardroom. He remains one of Canada’s top senior players and has represented Canada on the world seniors national team in 2018, 2019, and 2023.

He also won the BC provincials in the 40+ category in 2022 and 2024 and continues his long streak of victories at the Hollyburn Country Club tournament, which he’s won annually since 2008.

For Kates, tennis and business success share a common foundation: focus and balance.

“Setting aside time to exercise has always helped me maintain a calm mind during high-stress business deals,” he says. “Meditation and fitness are essential to keeping a healthy mind and body.”

He also prioritizes learning. “I try to spend 30 minutes reading each day and listen to podcasts on the go,” Kates says. “I do my best to surround myself with knowledge.”

That constant pursuit of growth—mental, physical, and professional—is what defines him. “My own set standards of continued learning and growth keep me moving forward,” he adds.

Defining Success on His Own Terms

When asked what success means to him, Kates’ answer reflects both ambition and perspective.

“Success is building a life where I’m deeply engaged in work I’m passionate about—solving problems that light me up—alongside people I genuinely respect and learn from every day,” he says. “It’s having the energy and flexibility to train hard, play competitive tennis, and still be fully present for my family.”

That blend of drive and balance has carried him through every stage of life—from the tennis court to the managing partner’s chair. It’s also what inspires those around him.

Today, his motivation goes beyond deals and rankings. “My son inspires me,” Kates says. “Before he arrived, it was my passion for entrepreneurship and business growth. Now, it’s about setting an example for him—showing what hard work and balance look like.”

A Leader with Purpose

In a world where industries are evolving faster than ever, Justin Kates stands out as a steady yet forward-thinking leader. He’s proof that the same principles that drive athletic excellence—discipline, integrity, and adaptability—can also build thriving teams and businesses.

For Kates, leadership isn’t about hierarchy. It’s about service—helping others perform at their best while staying grounded in what matters most.

“I work hard for my clients,” he says. “But I also work hard to build people up. That’s where the real success lies.”

Have you read?
Why Leadership Communication Fails: The Hidden “Intent Problem.”
Ways Arbor Users Save on Electricity (Without The Utility Switch).
Institutional-Grade Governance: Managing Operational Risk in Alternative Investments.
Scaling Content Delivery and Web Security: Insights from Vinod Thottempudi.
Why Long-Term Client Relationships Outperform Digital Marketing Trends.