We are proud to share that Steve Seguin was one of five leaders from this year’s “100 Best Companies to Work For in Oregon” featured in the March 2026 issue of Oregon Business Magazine. The interview discusses Steve’s input on company culture, professional growth, leadership advice, and more.
Q: When you reflect on your company’s culture, what are you most proud of and why?
A: What I’m most proud of is how our culture has grown and how thoughtfully it’s evolved over our firm’s 65-year history. It wasn’t built overnight. We’ve worked hard to create a place where people can bring their authentic selves to work, share unique strengths, and still rely on one another with respect and trust. Our firm provides a platform for both personal and professional growth, supporting individuals as they develop not just in their careers, but as people. We honor our traditions, even the quirky and old-fashioned ones, while embracing new ideas, driven by younger generations, that help our culture grow. Our approachable, nimble culture keeps us grounded and humble. Above all, we put our employees first—because when they thrive, everything else falls into place.
Q: Can you share a recent initiative or moment that you feel truly embodies your company’s values in action?
A: In 2025, we launched our first year-round wellness campaign, focusing on holistic health: mental, physical and emotional. From expert speakers to healthy recipes, prizes, a summer step challenge and even in-office chair massages, we covered it all. Supporting our employees’ well-being is important because it helps them thrive not just at work, but in everyday life.
Q: How do you promote professional growth, learning and career advancement for employees?
A: We support professional growth and career advancement in ways that fit each employee’s everyday work, including training, professional organizations and other learning opportunities. Associates and team members work alongside senior partners, receiving mentorship tailored to their goals. Career development isn’t one-size-fits-all; we help each person build on their strengths and interests. Partly because we are a mid-size firm, we offer an entrepreneurial environment where employees can take initiative and grow through client responsibilities, team projects and active participation. These experiences build transferable skills, including networking, communication and collaboration, beyond formal leadership roles.
Q: Beyond the balance sheet, how do you define “success” within your workplace?
A: This is the million-dollar question! Success is creating a firm where people want to come to work, not have to come to work. A place where engagement, purpose and collaboration drive everything we do. It’s our “secret sauce,” and we’re far from perfecting it. Success is also about balance: integrating new ideas and approaches while holding onto the values and traditions the firm was founded on.
Q: What does inclusion on the 100 Best Companies to Work For in Oregon list represent for your team?
A: In 2026, our firm is celebrating 20 years on Oregon’s 100 Best list—longer than any other law firm in the state. This didn’t happen by accident. We stuck with it, putting in the work—both challenging and rewarding—because we believe in creating a great workplace. Most importantly, this recognition is only possible because of our employees. Their dedication, collaboration and commitment are what truly make our firm a great place to work.
Q: What is the most impactful piece of leadership or career advice you’ve received?
A: The best leadership advice I’ve received is to hire the right people, give them the tools and platform to succeed, and then trust them to do their jobs. Provide space and autonomy, even when it’s hard in a law firm. Never take your team for granted, because how you lead your people is ultimately what drives success.
