Andre Poles, a highly regarded securities, regulatory and corporate lawyer, has joined Gowling WLG as a partner in the firm's Toronto office, and member of its Capital Markets and Financial Institutions & Services groups.
With over 20 years of experience in the financial services industry, Poles works with Canadian and international clients on a wide range of capital markets, investment and asset management matters.
He previously served as general counsel and chief compliance officer for a number of private Canadian wealth management firms, and held senior in-house roles with several global financial services firms. He also practised with two of Canada's national business law firms.
"We're delighted to welcome Andre to Gowling WLG," said Peter Lukasiewicz, chief executive officer of Gowling WLG Canada. "Not only does he bring an outstanding track record as a pragmatic adviser to his clients in the financial services sector, but his experiences in both law firms and in-house legal environments give him a fantastic perspective on how to be a true partner in his clients' success."
Poles' practice focuses on corporate finance for public and private companies, particularly underwriters. He also advises Canadian and foreign dealers, fund managers, investment advisers and distributors on legal issues and compliance related to the Canadian securities regulatory regime, the administration of various investment funds, and the offering of fund securities in public offerings and private placements.
"I'm excited to be taking this next step in my career with Gowling WLG," said Poles. "Not only does the firm provide an outstanding platform for my clients in the capital markets and wealth management space, but it also has a great team and a great culture, with a real entrepreneurial spirit. I look forward to working with my new colleagues in Toronto, across Canada and around the world."
Poles is called to the Bar in Ontario and is a non-practising solicitor in England and Wales. He has also completed the Canadian Securities Course and the Partners, Directors & Officers Course through the Canadian Securities Institute.
Outside of his legal career, Poles served in the Canadian Armed Forces Reserve Force for nearly 30 years, retiring as a Regimental Major with the 48th Highlanders of Canada in 2012.
About Gowling WLG
Gowling WLG is a new international law firm created by the combination of Gowlings, a leading Canadian law firm, and Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co (WLG), a leading UK-based international law firm.
With more than 1,500 legal professionals in 18 cities worldwide, we provide our clients with in-depth expertise in key global sectors and a suite of legal services at home and abroad. We see the world through our clients' eyes, and collaborate across countries, offices, service areas and sectors to help them succeed, no matter how challenging the circumstances.