Drawing on his hands-on experience, Chris develops policies, agreements, and plans that are impactful and grounded in the needs of those who implement them. The focus is always on creating solutions that are practical and effective in day-to-day operations.
Meet Chris
Chris has worked with Indigenous governments for over a decade and is guided by his deep respect for Indigenous self-determination and the right of Indigenous peoples to make decisions affecting their communities.
He prioritizes open conversation and constructive relationships to get results and responds to challenges with a steady and thoughtful approach.
Background
Chris holds a master’s degree in public policy (MPP) from the University of Calgary and is skilled at building relationships between communities, governments, and industry. He has focused his career on Indigenous decision-making and governance, particularly within the context of lands and resources.
Before starting his own practice, Chris served as the Director of the Lands and Resources Department for Kitselas First Nation for 7 years where – in addition to numerous Impact Benefit Agreements (IBAs) – he negotiated several reconciliation and governance agreements with the British Columbia, and federal governments agencies focusing on indigenous decision-making and processes.
Chris has also worked for the BC Oil and Gas Commission leading major projects consultation with First Nations impacted by LNG Development in NW BC, and for the Taku River Tlingit First Nation as their Mining Coordinator.
He has managed hundreds of projects related to indigenous stewardship, land management, impact assessment, fish and wildlife, emergency response, and governance.
In 2022, he was elected to public office as a Councillor for the City of Terrace.