Bennett Jones Bolsters Energy, Mining and M&A Groups with Three-Partner Hire

Bennett Jones today announced the addition of three nationally-recognized equity partners, further strengthening the firm’s top-tier energy, mining and M&A practices. Ben Rogers, Leanne Krawchuk and Dean Koumanakos bring decades of experience and deep client relationships developed through advising on transactions and projects in Canada, the US, and globally. Ben will practice from the firm's Calgary office, Leanne from Edmonton, and Dean from Montréal.

This strategic three-partner hire comes at a pivotal moment for Canada's economy. Canadian federal and provincial governments have signaled a renewed commitment to facilitating international investment into the Canadian economy, in an effort to develop Canada's energy and critical minerals sectors and appropriate investments into related infrastructure will be essential.

"Energy, mining, and natural resources are an essential part of the firm's DNA," said John M. Mercury, Executive Chair and Chair of the Board of Bennett Jones. "Representing sophisticated international and domestic players as they invest in all sectors of the Canadian economy, organically or through M&A, is not just something that we do, it's what we do best. The arrival of these experienced practitioners is a real-time example of our commitment to our strategic priorities." 

Dominique T. Hussey, Bennett Jones' Chief Executive Officer added, "We are delighted to welcome Ben, Leanne, and Dean to our team. Their legal and industry expertise, leadership skills, and collaborative approach enhance our capacity to deliver strategic advice and innovative solutions involving Canada's key industries and M&A—core areas of strength at Bennett Jones."

Ben Rogers acts for energy companies on all types of commercial matters across Canada and internationally. He has deep experience in a diverse range of energy-related matters, including acquisitions and divestitures, M&A, the structuring of joint venture agreements, midstream matters and project development. Ben was previously at another national business law firm where he was co-leader of the energy (oil & gas) group. He is ranked in Chambers Global and Chambers Canada in oil & gas, in Lexpert for energy and other national and global directories.

Leanne Krawchuk's practice spans complex corporate transactions, mining and resources, construction and infrastructure, capital markets and securities. She advises mining producers on high-stakes supply agreements, streaming and refinery arrangements, option and joint venture agreements involving precious metals, base and industrial minerals and critical minerals. At her previous firm, she was national leader of the corporate group and a member of the national management committee. She is recognized in Lexpert for mining, M&A, PE and corporate mid-market, in Best Lawyers for mining, energy and securities law and in other Canadian and international directories.

Dean Koumanakos advises Canadian and international clients on complex domestic and cross-border transactions, including M&A, buyouts, strategic and private equity investments, corporate finance matters, infrastructure and insolvency-based restructurings. He acts for public and private companies, private equity sponsors, financial institutions and investment funds across a broad range of industries. Dean was previously at a leading national business law firm and served as managing partner of its London office for over seven years. He is recognized in Lexpert for M&A, PE and corporate mid-market, and in Best Lawyers for leveraged buyouts.

Ben, Leanne and Dean are dynamic lawyers and highly complementary additions to Bennett Jones' market-leading energy, mining and M&A teams. In October 2025, the firm was honoured with The Globe and Mail’s Canada’s Best Law Firms award in Energy & Natural Resources (Mining, Oil & Gas) for the second year in a row. In dealmaking, Bennett Jones earned a Band 1 nationwide ranking in Corporate/M&A in Chambers Canada 2026—Chambers' highest distinction for dealmaking.

To discuss how our new partners can assist your organization, please contact them directly or connect with one of the leaders of our energy, mining or M&A groups.

About Bennett Jones LLP

Bennett Jones is one of Canada’s premier business law firms and home to 500 lawyers and business advisors.