Meg Kinnear is not only an accomplished arbitrator and lawyer, but also a mother whose story shows the power of perseverance and balance. In this episode, she takes us on her journey from studying law in Montreal, to serving the Canadian government, to becoming the first full-time Secretary General of ICSID at the World Bank. Along the way, she shares personal anecdotes—like once dreaming of becoming a veterinarian—and the challenges of managing a demanding career while raising a family. The conversation explores the evolving world of international arbitration, the importance of building efficient systems, and her bold new step of launching her own arbitration practice with partner Lucinda Lowe. Meg’s reflections on stepping outside of comfort zones, tackling stereotypes, and valuing personal connections offer both inspiration and practical wisdom for anyone navigating their own career path.
HIGHLIGHTS:
00:00 Warming Up
01:46 Meet the Guest: Meg Kinnear
03:39 Meg's Background and Career Beginnings
04:32 From Veterinary Aspirations to Law
05:27 Early Legal Career in Canada
10:32 Government Litigation Experience
16:59 Transition to International Arbitration
22:36 Joining ICSID (World Bank)
23:17 Applying for the Dream Job
24:16 Defining the Role of Secretary General
24:49 Challenges and Changes at the World Bank
26:27 Managing People and Systems
27:37 Expanding the Team and Technology
28:45 The Importance of ICSID Facilities
33:43 Balancing Work and Family
35:54 Starting a New Business
37:25 Choosing the Right Business Partner
40:00 Stereotypes in Arbitration
44:28 Innovations in Arbitration
46:16 Personal Life and Hobbies
48:21 Advice to Younger Self
49:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
BIOGRAPHY:
Meg Kinnear is a distinguished arbitrator and the former Secretary-General of ICSID (2009–2024), where she presided over record-breaking expansion and procedural modernization of the leading institution for investor–state disputes. Prior to that, she served the General Counsel (1999-2006) and then Senior General Counsel (2006-2009) of the Trade Law Bureau of Canada (JLT), and was deeply involved in early NAFTA investment arbitrations and trade negotiations. Now a founding partner of LKDR LLC, Meg provides arbitration, mediation, and fact-finding services, building on decades of leadership in international dispute resolution.
LINKS:
Website: https://lkdr.global/meg/#meg-story
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meg-kinnear-371643168/
