The Honourable Ed Fast Joins Sussex as Senior Counsel

Sussex Strategy Group is pleased to welcome The Honourable Ed Fast, PC, KC, as Senior Counsel. Based in British Columbia, Ed brings decades of experience in law, governance, and international trade to Sussex’s growing national advisory team. His appointment expands the firm’s reach in Western Canada and strengthens its ability to support clients navigating trade, investment, and economic development priorities across sectors and regions.

A lawyer by training, Ed practiced corporate and commercial law in Abbotsford, B.C. for 24 years before serving six consecutive terms as Member of Parliament for Abbotsford (2006 to 2021). During his time in government, he held senior cabinet roles including Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway. In those roles, he led one of Canada’s most ambitious trade agendas and oversaw negotiations for landmark agreements such as CETA with the European Union, as well as deals with South Korea, Ukraine, and the original Trans-Pacific Partnership countries.

“Ed’s deep expertise in trade and investment policy, combined with his firsthand experience in government decision-making, makes him an invaluable resource for our clients,” said Chris Benedetti, Managing Partner at Sussex Strategy Group. “His appointment adds to our national network of senior counsel, which includes former ministers Brad Duguid, Mike Holland, and Andrew Parsons. Each brings unique insight into how government, business, and policy connect.”

Throughout his career, Ed has built strong relationships across Canada’s political and business communities and within the global trade and investment landscape. He was appointed Queen’s Counsel in 2011 and has received both the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal and the King’s Coronation Medal in recognition of his service to his community and country.

At Sussex, Ed will provide strategic advice on international trade and tariff strategy, foreign investment, and government advocacy. He will help organizations move forward with clarity and confidence.