For the second time this month, a former provincial premier is joining the ranks of a national law firm.
Christy Clark, the former leader of British Columbia’s Liberal Party, is joining Bennett Jones LLP as a special adviser, based in Vancouver. Ms. Clark served as B.C.’s premier from 2011 to 2017.
Her hire follows the news in early May that former Saskatchewan premier Brad Wall was hired by law firm Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP as a special adviser.
It is common for prominent politicians to take jobs with law firms after they step away from public office. These leaders are often regarded for their knowledge of the political nuances on hot-button issues, and public respect for them gives their voices extra credibility on complex files.
Politicians are also hired for their expertise in specific areas, and Ms. Clark is well-versed on such matters as infrastructure and trade with Asia. Mr. Wall, meanwhile, has expertise in the energy and agrifood industries.
Over the years, Bennett Jones has hired a number of well-known politicians. Current advisers on its governmental affairs and public policy team include former federal foreign minister John Baird and former deputy prime minister Anne McLellan.
Ms. Clark was elected to the B.C. legislature in 1996 and in 2001 she was appointed deputy premier and minister of education by then-premier Gordon Campbell. She ran for leader of the B.C. Liberals in 2011 and led the province for six years after.
Tim Kiladze