Erin Wiley’s Path to In-House Legal Leadership at Hiive
In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate law, Erin Wiley’s ascent to Vice President and Deputy General Counsel at Hiive stands out as a testament to strategic career planning and legal expertise.
Wiley’s journey from private practice to in-house leadership is a masterclass in navigating the legal profession’s complexities. Her story offers valuable insights for lawyers aspiring to transition from traditional law firms to influential corporate roles.
A Strategic Career Progression
Erin Wiley’s legal career began in private practice, where she built a strong foundation in core legal principles. However, her ambition and vision soon led her to explore the dynamic world of in-house law.
Unlike many lawyers who take a direct path to in-house roles, Wiley’s trajectory was deliberate and calculated. Her transition was a series of well-planned moves, each step carefully chosen to enhance her legal expertise and broaden her professional experience.
Building a Diverse Legal Expertise
Before joining Hiive, Wiley held several prominent positions that shaped her legal acumen. At Shopify, she served as Director and Associate General Counsel, immersing herself in the fast-paced worlds of e-commerce and technology law.
Her tenure at Vial and CIBC further diversified her experience, exposing her to diverse industries and legal challenges. These roles not only honed her technical skills but also instilled in her the strategic mindset essential for in-house leadership.
Education and Professional Foundation
Wiley’s success is rooted in her prestigious legal education. She earned her Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Cornell Law School between 2006 and 2009, a period that laid the groundwork for her future achievements.
Cornell Law School’s rigorous program equipped her with the analytical and problem-solving skills that have been instrumental in her career. Her educational background continues to influence her approach to legal challenges and leadership.
Leadership at Hiive
Today, Erin Wiley is a key figure in Hiive’s legal team, serving as Vice President and Deputy General Counsel. Her role involves overseeing legal operations, advising on strategic initiatives, and mitigating risks for the company.
Wiley’s leadership at Hiive exemplifies the impact in-house lawyers can have on a company’s success. Her ability to blend legal expertise with business acumen has made her an indispensable asset to the organization.
An Inspiring Example for Aspiring Lawyers
Erin Wiley’s career path is more than just a personal success story—it’s a roadmap for lawyers seeking to transition from private practice to in-house leadership. Her journey underscores the importance of strategic planning, diverse experience, and continuous learning.
As Wiley continues to shape Hiive’s legal strategy, her story serves as a powerful inspiration for legal professionals contemplating a similar path. Her achievements remind us that with vision, determination, and the right opportunities, lawyers can thrive in the most challenging and rewarding roles.
Transition from Private Practice to In-House Excellence
Erin Wiley’s career trajectory is a prime example of how lawyers can successfully transition from private practice to in-house leadership roles. Her journey began in private practice, where she gained invaluable experience in core legal principles and client management.
Wiley’s move to in-house roles was not spontaneous but a well-thought-out strategy. She recognized the opportunities that in-house legal positions offered, such as being closer to business operations and contributing to strategic decision-making. This shift allowed her to align her legal expertise with business objectives, making her a more impactful counselor.
Key Roles Before Hiive
Prior to joining Hiive, Erin Wiley held several notable positions that further honed her legal and leadership skills. At Shopify, as Director and Associate General Counsel, she was deeply involved in matters related to e-commerce and technology law. This experience was pivotal in preparing her for the complexities of the digital economy and the legal challenges that come with it.
Her tenure at Vial and CIBC exposed her to diverse industries, where she handled a wide range of legal issues. These roles were instrumental in broadening her expertise and equipping her with the ability to navigate different regulatory landscapes. The experience gained in these positions was crucial in her eventual appointment as a senior legal leader at Hiive.
From Shopify to Hiive: A Natural Progression
Wiley’s time at Shopify played a significant role in her preparation for the leadership role at Hiive. The e-commerce sector’s fast-paced and innovative environment allowed her to develop a unique understanding of the intersection between law and technology. This expertise has been invaluable in her current role, where she advises on cutting-edge legal issues.
The skills she honed at Shopify, such as managing complex legal matters and advising on strategic business initiatives, have seamlessly transferred to her work at Hiive. Her ability to navigate the challenges of technology law has made her a key player in shaping the company’s legal strategy.
Leadership and Impact at Hiive
As Vice President and Deputy General Counsel at Hiive, Erin Wiley’s responsibilities extend beyond legal oversight. She is actively involved in shaping the company’s strategic direction, ensuring that legal considerations are integrated into every aspect of the business.
Wiley’s leadership style is characterized by her collaborative approach and commitment to fostering a culture of compliance and innovation within the legal team. Her ability to communicate complex legal concepts in a business-friendly manner has earned her the respect of both her peers and the executive leadership at Hiive.

Conclusion
Erin Wiley’s journey from private practice to in-house legal leadership at Hiive is a compelling narrative of strategic career planning, diverse legal expertise, and impactful leadership. Her transition from traditional law firms to influential corporate roles offers invaluable lessons for aspiring lawyers seeking to navigate the evolving legal landscape.
Wiley’s success underscores the importance of deliberate career moves, continuous learning, and the ability to blend legal acumen with business strategy. As she continues to shape Hiive’s legal framework, her story remains a powerful inspiration for legal professionals aiming to thrive in dynamic corporate environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Erin Wiley’s current role at Hiive?
Erin Wiley serves as Vice President and Deputy General Counsel at Hiive, where she oversees legal operations, advises on strategic initiatives, and mitigates risks for the company.
Where did Erin Wiley earn her legal education?
Erin Wiley earned her Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Cornell Law School between 2006 and 2009, which provided the foundation for her successful legal career.
What were Erin Wiley’s key roles before joining Hiive?
Before joining Hiive, Erin Wiley held prominent positions at Shopify as Director and Associate General Counsel, and gained diverse experience at Vial and CIBC, which shaped her legal expertise and leadership skills.
How did Erin Wiley transition from private practice to in-house roles?
Erin Wiley’s transition was a strategic and deliberate process. She moved from private practice to in-house roles to align her legal expertise with business objectives, allowing her to contribute to strategic decision-making and business operations.
What is Erin Wiley’s leadership style at Hiive?
Erin Wiley’s leadership style is collaborative and focused on fostering a culture of compliance and innovation. She is known for communicating complex legal concepts in a business-friendly manner, earning the respect of her peers and executive leadership.