emerging leaders within the organization. These employees set clear professional goals and are paired with internal mentors who guide their development journey. This initiative goes beyond enhancing technical skills and is intentionally focused on cultivating future leaders, emphasizing competencies such as strategic thinking, communication and team management to ensure a well-rounded leadership pipeline for the company. Beyond the balance sheet, how do you define “success” within your workplace? Alex Colas: Success is the lasting impression we leave on clients and partners. It is reflected in voluntary testimonials and in hearing that people speak highly of us when we are not in the room. There is no greater validation than knowing you are living your values consistently enough that others recognize and affirm them. Marc-Daniel Domond: When we receive a testimonial that reflects not just satisfaction, but trust. That kind of reputation is earned slowly, through consistent action and integrity over time. Success at Colas is measured in trust, credibility and the positive impact we leave behind long after the job is complete. Steve Ritchie: We define success as getting better every day. That can range anywhere from the staff level in learning and developing to improving our processes and procedures to improving our client experience. Steve Seguin: 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. Amber White: True success is achieved when the bank consistently creates value for all its stakeholders—employees, customers and the community—while upholding a strong reputation for trustworthiness and dependability. This approach ensures that our achievements are sustainable and meaningful, reflecting our commitment to integrity and long-term relationships. What does inclusion on the 100 Best Companies to Work For in Oregon list represent for your team? Alex Colas: It represents alignment. It affirms that our people genuinely believe in and experience the values our leadership promotes. Culture cannot be manufactured through surveys. It must be practiced daily. Our mission is to build legacies and strengthen communities. When our team feels that mission in a tangible way, we know we are on the right path. Marc-Daniel Domond: Inclusion on the list is confirmation that we are building something meaningful together. When our employees respond in a way that places us on that list, it tells us that our values are not aspirational statements. They are lived realities. When our team feels connected to our mission and believes we are living it with authenticity, that recognition becomes more than an award. Steve Ritchie: It reinforces our focus on building a workplace where people feel supported, challenged and empowered to grow and that our employees are experiencing exactly that. It means that we are doing great work at a great place to work. Steve Seguin: 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. Amber White: It is a significant achievement for our team, as it highlights our commitment to fostering a positive, supportive and engaging workplace. This recognition not only affirms our status as an employer of choice but also demonstrates to current and prospective employees that we value their well-being and professional growth. Such acknowledgment elevates the bank’s reputation, attracts top talent and increases customer trust, all of which are essential for driving our ongoing growth and success. What is the most impactful piece of leadership or career advice you’ve received? Alex Colas: To practice explicit clarity and listen for cues. People communicate and interpret information differently. One of the most important lessons I have learned as a leader is that listening is a discipline. When you truly listen, you gain insight, trust and the opportunity to grow alongside the people you lead. Marc-Daniel Domond: The most impactful leadership advice I’ve received is simple, but it has shaped everything about how I lead: Treat everyone the way you want to be treated, and never ask someone to do something you wouldn’t be willing to do yourself. That mindset removes hierarchy from leadership and replaces it with shared responsibility. It keeps me grounded. It’s a reminder that credibility is earned through example, not title. When your team knows you are willing to step into the hard conversations, the uncomfortable moments, or even the unglamorous tasks alongside them, trust grows naturally. Steve Ritchie: One thing that has always stuck with me is advice I received from one of our former partners, Dave Sparks: “Say what you mean, explain what you are going to do and do what you say you will.” Dave embodies that statement and I strive to meet that standard. Steve Seguin: 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. Amber White: To regularly ask for feedback from mentors, peers and team members. Constructive feedback can help you identify blind spots, improve your performance and foster a culture of continuous improvement. By actively seeking feedback, you demonstrate openness to growth and set an example for others to follow, ultimately enhancing both personal and team development. ⁄Q&A⁄ 12
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