John Esvelt

Biography description

With more than 25 years of senior experience in the legal industry, John Esvelt brings a rare combination of legal training, operational leadership, and deep technical expertise to his role as Chief Technology Officer at Miller Thomson. Over the course of his career, he has built high-performing teams, expanded business service capabilities, and fostered a culture of strong client service across national platforms.

John began his career as a litigation lawyer before moving into senior management roles at major Canadian law firms. During his more than two decades at a global law firm, he served in a range of executive positions, including Chief Practice Officer, Chief Legal Officer, Chief Risk Officer and Director of Technology. He later joined a Canadian boutique law firm as Chief Operating Officer, where he oversaw the firm’s operational strategy and business services functions.

His leadership spans technology strategy, cybersecurity, responsible AI adoption, governance, and regulatory risk management. John is also actively engaged in academic and industry collaboration. He is currently working with the University of Guelph’s Computer Science and AI Department and Western University’s Faculty of Law on the development of a legal-sector AI think tank focused on standards, trustworthiness frameworks, and the responsible use of AI in legal practice.

At Miller Thomson, John leads the Firm’s technology strategy and partners with teams across Canada to advance innovation, strengthen operational excellence, and support client service through thoughtful, business-focused technological solutions.