Josef Hocher

With over 25 years of combined legal and business acumen, Josef (Joe) Hocher brings a wealth of experience to his role as a partner in Cassels' Business Law Group. He represents clients from Canada, the US, and beyond in intricate transactions and corporate governance matters spanning various industries, including oil and gas, electrical, and technology sectors across North and Central America and beyond.

In 2002, Joe co-founded Buried Hill Energy, an international player in the oil and gas realm. There, he played a pivotal role in shaping the company's strategic vision and securing funding for its operations. His responsibilities ranged from steering investments to chairing corporate governance committees, all while contributing to global market engagement.

Currently, Joe wears multiple hats, serving as Chairman of Orthoshop Geomatics Ltd., a company specializing in tailored geospatial solutions. Additionally, he holds executive positions at Field Upgrading Limited and Western Hydrogen Limited, driving innovation in technology for heavy oil upgrading and hydrogen production.

In 2011, Joe spearheaded the establishment of Hitic Energy Ltd. in Alberta, Canada, representing the Jereh Group headquartered in Yantai, China. His leadership was instrumental in expanding Hitic's presence in the upstream oil and gas sector, overseeing business development and executing the company's strategic objectives.

Joe's professional achievements include recognition in prestigious publications such as Best Lawyers in Canada and Who’s Who Legal: Canada, underscoring his expertise in the energy sector.

Cassels' consistent recognition in industry rankings like Who’s Who Legal: Canada and Best Lawyers further attests to the caliber of legal talent within the firm.

Among Joe's notable transactions are Niyanin Nations' investment in a cogeneration unit for an Alberta gas plant, the McLeod Lake Indian Band's agreement for a $7 billion clean energy project, and Valeura Energy's acquisition of Thai offshore concessions from Mubadala Petroleum.

Joe holds an LL.B. from the University of Saskatchewan and is a member of various professional associations including the Canadian Bar Association and the Calgary Bar Association, along with being admitted to the Law Society of Alberta.