Bernd Christmas is a Partner at Longhouse Capital Partners and a proud member of the Membertou Band in Nova Scotia.  He is a highly accomplished leader with over 30 years of experience in law, mergers, and acquisitions, with a deep understanding of Indigenous communities and business. 

Bernd’s extensive career includes his role as President and CEO of Nch’Kay Development Corporation, the economic arm of the Squamish Nation.  He also founded the Bernd Chrismas Law Group, specializing in corporate, commercial, and Indigenous Peoples law.  As a lawyer, former CEO of the Membertou Band, and negotiator for numerous First Nations, he offers a unique perspective on Indigenous business and governance. 

His leadership experience extends to national and international boards, including previous positions with Investors Group, Canada Post Pension Plan, Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, and the Canada China Business Council.  Bernd also served as a Partner at Cassels Brock LLP and Senior Counsel to JFK Law LLP.  He is currently on the board of Future Fuels and the Investment Committee for the Child Welfare Settlement overseeing its $23 Billion fund. 

Bernd holds a Bachelor of Laws from Osgoode Hall Law School at York University, was recently awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Laws from The Metropolitan University in Toronto.  He has completed the Institute of Corporate Directors Program (ICD) at University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management.