We Are Southren Group :: Elisabeth Folk

For Elisabeth Folk, legal operations isn’t just a career—it’s a calling. As Business Operations Specialist at Southren Group, she brings nearly three decades of experience in law firm management, overseeing everything from human resources and IT to accounting and facilities. Elisabeth has dedicated her professional life to ensuring that law firms run efficiently, allowing lawyers to focus on their clients and the growth of their practice. With a Certified Human Resource Leader (CHRL) designation and active memberships in TLOMA (The Law Office Management Association) and HRPA (Human Resources Professionals Association), she remains at the forefront of best practices in firm management.

From Cheektowaga to Canada: A Life-Changing Move

Elisabeth’s journey began in Cheektowaga, New York, where she grew up as the middle child in a bustling family of five. With two older sisters who are identical twins, her childhood was lively and full of energy. While cultural background wasn’t a prominent topic in her home, moving to Toronto for university opened her eyes to a world of diverse experiences. She quickly realized how many of her peers had strong ties to their heritage, shaping a new appreciation for cultural identity. That move also shaped her future in unexpected ways—she met her significant other at school, ultimately making Canada her permanent home.

A Natural Leader in Law Firm Management

Elisabeth’s early career aspirations were guided by her mother’s hope that she would become a lawyer. She pursued an undergraduate degree in Political Science and Philosophy at the University of Toronto but soon realized law school wasn’t the right fit. Instead, she pivoted toward business, enrolling in York University’s Bachelor of Commerce program while working full-time. This blend of education and hands-on experience became the foundation for a career spent helping law firms operate at their best.

Her professional journey took her from working as a law clerk in Buffalo to various law firm management roles in Canada. She started as an Administrative Assistant in Real Estate, steadily advancing to Assistant Office Manager and later Office Manager, overseeing firms of all sizes—from solo practitioners to 20-lawyer teams. That experience gave her a deep understanding of the challenges law firms face and how strong operational leadership can drive efficiency, growth, and success. Now, as part of Southren Group’s Operations Management Programs, she works alongside Teresa Krupa, providing essential support to small and medium-sized law firms, ensuring they have the infrastructure they need without the burden of a full-time operations team.

A Passion for Travel and Family

Beyond the office, Elisabeth finds joy in travel—particularly cruising, which has become her latest passion. “It’s the perfect way to see multiple destinations without the hassle of repacking every time,” she says. She is also an avid reader and, above all, values time with her family. Whether watching movies, playing games, or enjoying the outdoors, she cherishes the moments spent with her loved ones.

Empowering Law Firms at Southren Group

At Southren Group, Elisabeth has found a team that inspires her daily. “Working together to accomplish great things for our clients has become my mantra to start each day,” she shares. Her role directly supports Southren Group’s core values of Connectedness, Contribution, Collaboration, and Growth, ensuring law firms have the operational strength to thrive. “By handling the behind-the-scenes aspects, we empower our clients to focus on what they do best—practicing law and growing their business.”

With a career built on leadership, efficiency, and a deep commitment to supporting law firms, Elisabeth is a driving force behind Southren Group’s mission. She believes in building strong foundations so firms can flourish, and her expertise ensures that behind every great legal team, there’s a seamless, strategic operation supporting them. As she continues to grow with Southren Group, she remains dedicated to optimizing processes, navigating change, and helping firms build a stronger future.