A member of the Ontario Bar, Brian has spent his career at the intersection of government, politics, business and the law. Brian works to ensure the public, private and non-profit sectors understand each other’s respective priorities and to create effective public policy solutions that can be supported by all actors. Prior to joining Sussex, Brian served in senior public affairs, stakeholder management, regulatory compliance, strategic planning, policy development and advocacy roles at major local and national business and industry associations and worked at a major national law firm.
Brian excels at: helping clients understand the impacts to them of legislation or regulations; identifying client objectives and developing successful strategies; crafting effective public policy solutions for clients; navigating complex legislative and/or regulatory processes; and connecting clients with the relevant decision-makers to achieve results. With a broad policy background, Brian can help clients in a variety of fields, with recent successful engagements in the areas of economic development, infrastructure, housing, financial services, real estate development, environment, cannabis, culture and tourism, tax policy, agriculture and export development.
Brian has led many legislative and policy initiatives, achieving exceptional and original results. Recognized as a public policy expert in several fields, policy papers written by Brian have been cited by governments in announcing their policies; endorsed by political candidates and incorporated into election platforms; as well as made part of university curriculums. Brian has also authored scholarly articles in the areas of health and social policy and international trade, as well as investment policy.
Brian is also a part-time faculty at York University, teaching International Business. In addition to his professional roles and responsibilities, Brian is also an amateur stand-up comic.