Experience That Informs Every Decision

Meet Stephen Mabey - bringing clarity and candour to law firm consulting.

With over 40 years of experience in the professional services industry, Stephen has established a reputation for simplifying complexity with a practical, common-sense approach. During his 25 years in senior management at Stewart McKelvey—one of Atlantic Canada's largest law firms—he played a key role in shaping the firm's strategic direction, operational structure, and long-term growth. That experience provided him with a profound understanding of the challenges that law firm leaders face and the decisions that drive success.

Since launching Applied Strategies in 2009, Stephen has worked with small and mid-sized law firms across Canada, helping leadership teams make smart decisions about their businesses. Whether he's guiding a firm through a significant transition, strategizing for the future, or helping them fine-tune day-to-day operations, Stephen brings clarity, candour, and a steady hand to the process. 

His clients call on him when they need straight talk, a clear path forward—and maybe a laugh to get through it. He's passionate about helping firms thrive and is known for getting to the heart of the matter—fast. His advice is always grounded in what's best for the business, and his clients value his thoughtful perspective and unwavering commitment to their goals.

Stephen Mabey, CPA, CA | Managing Director of Applied Strategies, Inc.

  • 25 years in senior management with Stewart McKelvey, a 220+ lawyer firm with six offices across Atlantic Canada

  • 16+ years advising small to mid-sized law firms on strategy, operations, and leadership.

  • Fellow of the College of Law Practice Management (one of only 19 Canadians among 209 Fellows)

  • Author of:
      - Leading and Managing a Sustainable Law Firm: Tactics and Strategies for a Rapidly Changing Profession
      - Key Performance Indicators: An Introductory Guide, v.2

  • Long-time, pre "tariff war" panelist and facilitator of the Managing Partner Information Exchange (MPIE) at the annual Managing Partner Forum Leadership Conference in Atlanta, Georgia.

Key Experience & Credentials:

We could tell you more, but we would rather let our clients do the talking. Head over to the client testimonials to hear directly from the firms we've worked with.