Michael Hughes is a seasoned professional with considerable and varied experience in labour relations (LR). He earned a Bachelor of Laws degree at the University of Alberta and a Master of Law from the University of Toronto, and has practised labour and employment law with two of Western Canada’s leading firms, representing and advising large, sophisticated employer clients. That experience was rounded out by advocacy on behalf of employees in a role as representative/counsel for Alberta’s largest union.

Michael approaches labour relations with the unique and balanced perspective acquired from working with both management and union clients in the private and public sectors. He has experience in each of the various fundamental activities that make up LR, including advocacy in labour arbitration and at the Labour Relations Board, and acting as lead negotiator in collective bargaining.

He has complemented his conflict resolution/LR skillset by obtaining the Qualified Arbitrator designation through the Alternative Dispute Resolution Institute of Alberta, and is currently on Alberta Mediation Services’ Grievance Arbitration and Mediation rosters. He has acted primarily as a labour arbitrator and mediator since establishing Hughes Labour Relations in 2022, and has multiple reported decisions on CanLII. He has been consensually appointed as chair on over 200 arbitration files.

Michael has enjoyed giving back to his hometown by volunteering for the Edmonton Community Legal Centre. He frequently seeks out live music and is proud to have volunteered for and sat on the board of directors for the Edmonton Folk Music Festival.