Emmanuel Grondin, Guillaume Michaud and Joe Mooney named 2025 Lexpert Rising Stars

Partners Emmanuel Grondin (Montreal), Guillaume Michaud (Montreal) and Joe Mooney (Calgary) have been recognized as 2025 Lexpert Rising Stars, an award honouring a select group of accomplished lawyers under age 40 across Canada. This distinction celebrates the next generation of legal industry innovators and leaders.

“This distinguished award honours Emmanuel, Guillaume and Joe for their exceptional work, significant transactions, strategic guidance, and unwavering client support. It also celebrates their remarkable contributions to the community and their advocacy for meaningful causes. The award recognizes individuals who truly make a difference.” says Jennifer Teskey, Managing Partner, Canada.

Emmanuel is recognized for his leadership in the Quebec business community and his experience in complex transactions. He has led large teams in Canada and internationally, delivering significant work on transactions such as the $10 billion Innergex Renewable Energy acquisition and the $4.5 billion Metro acquisition of Jean Coutu. In addition to his transactional work, Emmanuel is committed to mentoring and developing the profession for the future. He also contributes to the community as a board member of the Fondation du CHUM and through various philanthropic initiatives.

Guillaume developed his practice during the 2008 economic crisis and now serves as head of insolvency and restructuring. Known for his innovative approach, he has played important roles in cases involving Taiga Motor Corp., Lion Electric Company and Stornoway Diamonds. Guillaume is a member of the Insolvency Institute of Canada and president of the Canadian Bar Association – Quebec Branch – Insolvency Section. His commitment extends to community engagement through board service with organizations such as the Turnaround Management Association (Montreal Chapter) and Friends of the Botanical Gardens of Montreal.

Joe advises on major bank financings and debt capital markets transactions from our Calgary office, including some of the largest financing deals in Canada. He was a core member of the team behind the debt financing of the Coastal GasLink natural gas pipeline. Dedicated to mentorship and inclusion, Joe actively supports the LGBTQ+ community and volunteers pro bono services for local trans ID clinics, helping individuals navigate identity documentation processes.

Presented by Lexpert and supported by Canadian Lawyer and Law Times, the awards celebrate professional excellence and contributions beyond the legal sphere, including volunteering, board membership and education. The recognition is based on an extensive review by an advisory panel of legal professionals and editorial research to identify Canada’s most outstanding young practitioners.