Paul Harricks

Paul Harricks serves as counsel at Gowling WLG's Toronto office, bringing over a quarter-century of robust experience to his corporate law practice with a spotlight on the energy, nuclear, and infrastructure sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the Canadian and international energy landscapes, facilitating aspects of the energy transition.

Between 2019 and 2023, Paul was at the helm of Hydro One Limited as the executive vice-president & chief legal officer. During his tenure, he spearheaded the utility's legal, regulatory, governance, ethics, and compliance initiatives, playing a pivotal role in strategic, regulatory, and legal undertakings, alongside environmental, social, and governance (ESG) matters.

One of Paul's notable achievements includes leading Hydro One's Regulatory Affairs team to successfully complete a landmark joint rate application to the Ontario Energy Board, a feat that culminated in 2022 with a settlement on all fronts—a first for the company.

Before his stint at Hydro One, Paul was instrumental in steering Gowling WLG's Energy and Infrastructure Groups starting in 2010. His tenure also included leading the Toronto Business Law Department and serving on the firm's Toronto office Management Committee.

Throughout his illustrious career, Paul has adeptly managed a wide spectrum of M&A transactions across various industries, particularly in the power sector since 1999. His roles have spanned from leading teams in infrastructure fund formations and governance, to orchestrating investments in public-private partnerships and spearheading significant projects in the nuclear and energy sectors.

As a capital markets lawyer, Paul has facilitated numerous public and private transactions in the debt and equity space, serving a diverse clientele including those in financial services, real estate, consumer products, and electricity distribution.

Beyond his transactional work, Paul is celebrated for his exceptional client service, marked by strategic acumen, rigorous project management, and a team-oriented approach. He is deeply invested in understanding his clients' business landscapes, ensuring robust and enduring partnerships.

Paul's educational contributions include completing the ICD-Rotman Directors Education Program and engaging in various board roles across public, private, and nonprofit sectors. He's been a pivotal figure in energy transition advocacy, serving on the Toronto Region Board of Trade’s Energy Transition Committee and other leadership roles within the Association of Power Producers of Ontario.

Moreover, Paul's influence extends to the academic and global legal communities, where he has shared his knowledge on corporate law, governance, and other pertinent legal areas, shaping the next generation of legal professionals.

With a legal journey commencing in 1980 following his LLB from Osgoode Hall Law School and a BA from Trinity College, University of Toronto, Paul Harricks has left an indelible mark on the legal, energy, and infrastructure landscapes, recognized by his peers and the industry for his contributions and leadership.