Evan Olson to Join Canadian Bar Association, Sask. Branch, as Treasurer and Board Member
The Canadian Bar Association’s Saskatchewan branch (CBA-SK) has announced a significant addition to its leadership team. Evan Olson, a respected Regina-based in-house lawyer, will take on the roles of treasurer and board member starting September 1, 2025. This appointment marks a key step in Olson’s journey within the CBA, as he is slated to become the branch’s president for the 2027–28 term.
Olson’s selection for these roles is a testament to his long-standing commitment to the legal profession. Known for his advocacy efforts on behalf of Saskatchewan and Canadian lawyers, Olson has been an active member of the CBA since 2017. His previous role as a member of the branch council (2023–25) and his involvement with various CBA sections underscore his dedication to advancing the interests of the legal community.
Professional Background and Contributions
Evan Olson currently serves as Senior Counsel and Regional Compliance Officer for North America at Viterra, a global agribusiness with operations in 39 countries. In this role, he provides commercial legal services, oversees mergers and acquisitions, and manages Viterra’s compliance program in Canada. His expertise spans both in-house and private practice, having previously worked at Miller Thomson LLP in Regina and the federal Department of Justice in Saskatoon before transitioning to in-house counsel in 2011.
Olson’s leadership in the legal profession extends beyond his work at Viterra. He has held numerous high-profile roles, including serving as president of the Canadian Corporate Counsel Association (CCCA) during 2022–23. Since 2017, he has been a member of both the CBA National Board and the CCCA National Board, demonstrating his deep commitment to supporting in-house counsel—a growing segment of the legal profession in Canada.
Education and Certifications
Olson’s academic credentials are equally impressive. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce and a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from the University of Saskatchewan. He has further enhanced his education through executive programs at the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management and Harvard Law School. In 2017, he earned the Certified In-House Counsel – Canada (CIC.C) designation, complemented by his completion of the Business Leadership Program for In-House Counsel at Rotman. These achievements have equipped him with a strong understanding of corporate and organizational dynamics.
Future Plans and Vision
As treasurer of CBA-SK, Olson aims to strengthen the branch’s priorities while addressing key challenges facing the legal sector. His vision for leadership focuses on enhancing support for Saskatchewan lawyers and driving advancements that benefit the broader legal profession. His appointment is widely seen as a strategic move to ensure the branch remains responsive to the evolving needs of its members.
Beyond his professional responsibilities, Olson is deeply rooted in his community. A Saskatoon native now based in Regina, he is actively involved in volunteer initiatives, including coaching youth sports. He balances his demanding career with family life alongside his wife, Audrey, and their two children. This blend of professional excellence and community engagement positions Evan Olson as a key figure in shaping the future of the legal profession in Saskatchewan and beyond.
Community Involvement and Personal Life
Beyond his professional achievements, Evan Olson is deeply committed to his community. Originally from Saskatoon, he now resides in Regina, where he actively participates in local initiatives. Olson is passionate about giving back to his community, particularly through youth sports coaching, which reflects his dedication to nurturing the next generation of leaders and athletes.
Olson’s community engagement extends beyond sports. He has been involved in various volunteer initiatives that align with his values of service and support for the community. His ability to balance a demanding career with active community involvement highlights his dedication to creating a positive impact both within and outside the legal profession.
On a personal level, Olson values family and work-life balance. He and his wife, Audrey, are raising their two children in Regina, where they are actively involved in local activities and community events. This balance reflects Olson’s holistic approach to life, blending professional success with personal fulfillment and community contributions.
