Recognized in Ones to Watch since 2026 Susan is an associate at McInnes Cooper.
Susan Johnson is a corporate and tax lawyer whose practice focuses on domestic corporate tax advice and planning for individuals, trusts, and private corporations. She advises on a broad range of matters including corporate transactions, tax efficient reorganizations, business structuring and strategic tax planning. Her practice also includes estates and trusts, as well as cross-border, emigration and immigration tax considerations.
Susan brings a practical, business-oriented perspective to her legal work, shaped by over a decade of prior experience in the banking and financial services industry, including as a personal banker. She is known for delivering clear, well-structured advice that helps clients navigate complex tax and regulatory issues while aligning with their broader business objectives.
Her client-focused approach is grounded in understanding each client’s unique goals and tailoring solutions accordingly. Combining thoughtful legal analysis with practical insight, Susan supports clients in making informed, strategic decisions, particularly in tax-driven matters. She is motivated by problem-solving and is committed to simplifying complexity, identifying efficient solutions, and enhancing the overall client experience.
Susan is a regular speaker at the Canadian Tax Foundation’s Atlantic Tax Conference and a contributor to Taxnet Pro™ Tax Hyperion. She completed the Chartered Professional Accountants (CPA) In-Depth Tax Course in 2022 and the CPA In-Depth Corporate Reorganization Course in 2023.
She has been actively involved with the Canadian Bar Association (CBA), representing Nova Scotia on the CBA National Board of Directors from 2020 to 2022 and serving on the CBA National Policy Committee from 2021 to 2026, including as Chair of the Committee from 2021 to 2022. She is a member of the Law Society of British Columbia, the Law Society of New Brunswick, and the Nova Scotia Barristers' Society. Susan has moderated panels at national conferences and previously served as Chair of the Audit Committee of the Smythe Street Cathedral Inc.'s Board of Trustees.
Susan is actively engaged in her community, volunteering with the Port Moody Arts Centre Society, City Serve Vancouver, and Alpha Canada. Outside of her practice, Susan is an author and publisher of a children’s educational colouring book and a passionate Formula 1 enthusiast. She is drawn to the sport’s blend of precision, innovation, and high performance, and enjoys creative pursuits in her spare time.
