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Armenak Martin Dumanian’s journey reflects a lifelong dedication to fairness, integrity, and service—principles that have shaped both his personal and professional life. As an Ethics & Risk Analyst at Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP, Armenak is not just ensuring legal representation remains ethical, but he is helping to build a system that people can trust. His story is a reminder that a career rooted in integrity has the power to impact lives both in and out of the courtroom.
Growing Up with Purpose: A Foundation in Leadership
Armenak’s story begins in Oakville, Ontario, where he cultivated a sense of responsibility and fairness from a young age. Balancing academics with sports and community service, Armenak honed his leadership abilities early on. Playing hockey, soccer, and golf while actively participating in church and youth programs, he developed a strong moral compass that would guide him through his academic and professional endeavors.
“Whether it was in sports, school, or helping in the community, I wanted to do my part,” says Armenak. This commitment to doing things the right way became the foundation of his career, laying the groundwork for a future in law focused on justice and fairness.
A Commitment to Learning: Education and the Road to Law
Armenak’s dedication to learning propelled him into the world of politics and law. After graduating from high school, he pursued a degree in Political Studies at Queen’s University, followed by a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Leicester. His time in law school was marked by involvement in legal research and pro bono work. He even published an essay in the University of Leicester’s Law Review on de-politicized sentencing in terrorism cases.
“It was eye-opening,” Armenak recalls of his experience in law school. “Seeing how law affects real people pushed me to think about the bigger picture. Justice isn’t just about rules; it’s about people.” This perspective would continue to guide his career, ensuring that the human element of law was never lost.
Building a Legal Career: Ensuring Ethics in Practice
Armenak’s professional journey in law began with his time at Mathews Dinsdale & Clark LLP and continued at Axess Law Professional Corporation, where he became Manager of Client Legal Services. In April 2024, he took on a critical role as an Ethics & Risk Analyst at Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP. In this capacity, Armenak works diligently to ensure regulatory compliance within the firm, managing legal, economic, and reputational risks.
“My job is to help keep the foundation of law strong,” Armenak explains. “Without trust and integrity, the system doesn’t work.” His role is not just about legal compliance but fostering an environment where ethical practices drive decision-making at every level of the firm.
Commitment to Community: Giving Back
Beyond his professional achievements, Armenak is deeply committed to his community. A lifelong member of St. Vartan Armenian Church of Mississauga, he has actively served on the altar and volunteered with youth programs, day camps, and cultural festivals. His faith and culture are a cornerstone of his identity, and giving back to the community remains a priority.
“My faith and culture are important to me,” he says. “Giving back to the community has always been a big part of my life.” Armenak’s dedication to serving others transcends the legal field, extending into the fabric of his local and cultural community.
Balancing Professionalism with Personal Growth
Even with a demanding career, Armenak believes in the importance of balance. His hobbies—golf, fitness, reading, travel, and politics—allow him to recharge and stay grounded. He describes golf as a discipline that teaches patience and focus, skills he believes are equally important in both his personal and professional life.
“Golf teaches patience and focus,” Armenak notes. “It’s like life. You don’t always get a perfect shot, but you have to keep going.” This philosophy aligns with his approach to law and ethics, where persistence and the pursuit of integrity remain constant, even in challenging circumstances.
The Future of Ethics in Law: Navigating Change
As technology transforms the legal industry, Armenak emphasizes that ethics will play a more critical role than ever before. With AI and automation on the rise, questions of fairness and responsibility become paramount. Armenak believes that while technology can enhance legal processes, it must be deployed with care to ensure that the values of justice and integrity are maintained.
“We need to make sure that technology is used responsibly and that people are treated fairly,” he says. As he continues to grow in his career, Armenak remains committed to strengthening legal ethics and risk management, ensuring that the core values of law—fairness, integrity, and justice—remain at the forefront.
Final Thoughts: A Lifelong Commitment to Integrity
Armenak Martin Dumanian’s story is one of unwavering dedication to ethics, community, and personal growth. From his roots in Oakville to his current role as an Ethics & Risk Analyst, his journey underscores the importance of doing what’s right, not just what’s easy. As he continues to make a positive impact in the legal field, his message remains clear:
“It’s not about titles or achievements,” Armenak reflects. “It’s about making a difference where you can.”
Armenak’s commitment to integrity is a beacon for others in the legal field and beyond, reminding us that true success lies not in accolades, but in the difference we make in the lives of others.
