As strategic counsel, Louis advises the Firm’s clients on complex matters related to financial sector regulation, securities markets, business transactions, governance and public policy, as well as high-stakes regulatory and disciplinary issues. His extensive experience as president and chief executive officer also leads him to provide strategic advice on risk management, crisis management and stakeholder management issues.

Prior to joining Blakes, Louis worked at the Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF) for more than 17 years. He started out as superintendent of securities markets and then took on the role of president and chief executive officer for 10 years. During his tenure, he substantially transformed the organization’s culture and contributed significantly to the steady increase of the AMF’s leadership, reach and influence within national and international regulator forums.

In particular, Louis served as chair of the Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA) for more than seven years and represented the AMF on the Board of the International Organization of Securities Commissions, contributing significantly to the initiatives of both organisations.

With his many years of contribution as a regulator, Louis has a unique perspective and knowledge of the public policy foundations of the regulatory and normative framework specific to Quebec and relating to capital markets across Canada. His understanding of the inner workings of the AMF, the CSA and of the general financial markets landscape in the country and internationally is an invaluable resource for the Firm’s lawyers and clients.

Before joining the AMF, Louis practised corporate law for nearly 10 years at another major Canadian law firm. While there, he developed in-depth expertise in securities, corporate finance, and public and private mergers and acquisitions.

Louis is fluent in English and French.