D.S. Ewens

Doug has always placed a premium on providing exceptional service to his clients, a commitment that has been the cornerstone of his career. His dedication to excellence in tax advisory services is recognized both by those he works with and the clients he serves. As tax regulations undergo constant changes, Doug thrives on navigating these complexities, offering innovative solutions by working closely with his clients and peers.

His journey in the legal field took a significant turn when he moved to Calgary in the late 1970s with McCarthy and McCarthy, which later rebranded to McCarthy Tétrault. There, along with two partners, Doug was instrumental in establishing the firm's inaugural office outside Ontario. His leadership skills shone brightly during his tenure as National Tax Practice Leader for eight years and during his six years on the Board of Directors, marking him as a prominent figure in Canada's tax law sector. In 2013, Doug embarked on a new chapter with PwC Law LLP, spearheading the establishment of its Calgary office, before taking on a role as Counsel at Moodys Private Client LLP.

When not immersed in the intricacies of tax law, Doug enjoys quality time with his family, including his wife, Janet, their four children, their spouses, and ten grandchildren, emphasizing the importance of balance between professional and personal life.

Doug's legal education was completed at Osgoode Hall Law School in 1969, followed by his admission to the Ontario bar in 1971 and the Alberta bar in 1981. His expertise encompasses a broad range of tax-related areas, including mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, reorganizations, tax-efficient financing, and dispute resolution. Notably, Doug has a knack for resolving disputes favorably for his clients through strategic negotiations with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

He has advised on numerous high-profile transactions, notably serving as the lead tax counsel for a significant asset exchange involving offshore properties in Canada and Norway. Additionally, his role as tax counsel in a major merger contributed to the creation of a leading energy producer in North America. Doug's ability to provide clear, actionable advice on the general anti-avoidance rule (GAAR) and its implications on client transactions or reorganizations further underscores his deep understanding and skill in the field of tax law.