Drew Lawrenson

Drew, a partner at Harper Grey's Business Law Group, brings a wealth of expertise to the table, especially in collaborating with First Nations, Economic Development Corporations, and Indigenous-owned companies. His legal practice navigates the complex terrains of the energy sector, natural resources, and development projects with a keen focus on fostering growth and sustainable practices.

Before joining Harper Grey, Drew played a pivotal role as vice president and general counsel for a global consortium that focused on commercial real estate and the private education sector across North America. This role underscored his capacity to handle high-stakes legal matters in dynamic business environments.

In his current position, Drew lends his legal acumen to a diverse clientele, offering advice on corporate and commercial strategies, real estate transactions, and governance issues. His guidance is particularly valued in facilitating mergers and acquisitions, crafting Indigenous joint venture agreements, and navigating the intricacies of board and band governance. Drew is also proficient in handling commercial real estate deals, advising on cannabis retail and production ventures, and leading Crown/Indigenous negotiations and sustainable resource development initiatives.

Drew's academic background includes a J.D. from the University of British Columbia (2004) and a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Victoria (2001). He was admitted to the British Columbia bar in 2005, solidifying his credentials as a legal professional.

His expertise is recognized in various legal domains, including business law, insolvency and restructuring, environmental regulation and disputes, real estate law, and Indigenous business law. Drew's leadership skills have been evident through his roles as a past director of the British Columbia Career College Association and a past chairman of the Canadian Bar Association (BC) Business Law Subsection. He has also contributed to the Cayoose Creek Development Corp as a board member and offered his insights as a guest lecturer at the Ch’nook Aboriginal Management Program at UBC’s Sauder School of Business.

Drew's commitment to the legal profession and community development is further demonstrated by his contributions as a contributing author to the CLE Mortgages Practice Manual from 2007 to 2016 and his service on the advisory board of the Tla-o-quit First Nation Development Corporation. His memberships in the Canadian Bar Association, BC Branch, and The Law Society of British Columbia underscore his standing in the legal community and his dedication to advancing the practice of law in British Columbia.