David Johnson

Dave leads the National Banking and Finance Group at Fasken, bringing over two decades of experience in corporate and commercial debt financing across Canada and internationally. His clientele ranges from lenders and borrowers to investment dealers and insurance companies, involving him in a plethora of transactions across diverse sectors. Dave is particularly noted for his work in leveraged finance and capital call/subscription financings, often spearheading large teams on significant projects.

He has played a pivotal role in financing ventures for some of Canada's largest entities, including billion-dollar financings for prominent power and utility conglomerates and a leading national grocer. His expertise is widely acknowledged by prestigious legal directories such as Chambers Canada and Legal 500.

Dave's recent work includes acting for major financial institutions in providing extensive credit to companies like Fortis Inc. and Emera Incorporated, facilitating significant corporate acquisitions and developments. He has also led financing for private equity transactions and represented lenders in high-value credit facilities for major funds.

In the private equity sphere, Dave has facilitated credit facilities for notable acquisitions, including those by Bain Capital Private Equity and Novacap, underscoring his versatility in handling both lender and borrower perspectives. His involvement extends to the technology, media, and telecommunications sectors, providing substantial credit to companies like Bragg Communications Inc. and supporting tech startups with their financing needs.

Dave's automotive finance work includes orchestrating credits for major acquisitions and operational financing for international auto groups, demonstrating his capability to manage complex, cross-border transactions.

His contributions to financial institutions and pension funds involve arranging substantial credits for innovative financing projects and supporting major Canadian pension funds and financial enterprises in securing significant loans.

In the food and grocery sector, Dave has secured large credits for companies like Empire Company and Sobeys Inc., as well as facilitating financing for North American food manufacturing and distribution enterprises.

Dave's healthcare financing expertise is evident in his work with dental/healthcare "roll-ups" and orthodontic conglomerates, providing them with necessary capital for expansion and operations.

Furthermore, Dave has been instrumental in securing financing for industrial and consumer product companies, highlighting his broad range of industry involvement.

His education includes an LLB from the University of Western Ontario and a BA from Huron University College, equipping him with a solid foundation for his legal career. As a member of the Canadian and Ontario Bar Associations, Dave remains engaged with the legal community, continuously enhancing his knowledge and expertise in banking and finance law.