From Lawyer to Entrepreneur: Taking Risks and Creating Opportunity
I started my career as a corporate finance and securities lawyer in Toronto and Vancouver. Most of my clients were junior mining companies, and while I enjoyed the work, I found myself increasingly drawn to the opportunities behind the businesses. I loved analyzing their potential, thinking strategically about growth, and imagining what they could become someday.
I earned my Juris Doctor from Western University’s Faculty of Law and was called to the bar in multiple provinces. My legal work and studies necessitated critical thinking, attention to detail, and risk management in everything I did. I didn’t realize it at the time, but these skills would ultimately form the foundation for the next stage of my career.
Taking the Leap
Leaving law wasn’t a decision I took lightly. I had a child on the way, no guaranteed income, and a fairly safe and predictable career path ahead. Then a mentor handed me a mining opportunity in Newfoundland with a simple note: “I think you’re ready for your first deal.”
It was both scary and thrilling to leave familiar, reliable work for unknown territory. That first deal taught me something crucial: settling for certainty often means missing the best opportunities. Real potential exists in uncertainty, and progress comes from acting decisively before others recognize it.
From Vision to Reality
In 2003, I founded King & Bay, a merchant bank and venture builder. Our goal was to take high-potential, early-stage ideas and turn them into investable, scalable companies. We invest money, assemble teams, structure deals, manage technical development, and guide companies toward public markets or strategic exits.
Over the years, I’ve raised over $1.5 billion across a range of industries, including mining, aviation, and technology. One of the most notable projects I co-founded is Alderon Iron Ore. The company secured a $400 million offtake agreement with HBIS Group, China’s largest steel producer at the time. We took Alderon from a startup to a full NYSE listing, a clear example of what’s possible when careful planning meets decisive action.
Driving Growth at Intrepid Metals
Today, I serve as Chairman and CEO of Intrepid Metals (TSXV: INTR, OTCQB: IMTCF), where we focus on high-grade copper, silver, and zinc projects in Nevada and Arizona, including Corral Copper, Tombstone South, and Mesa Well. I see my role as a “plate setter.” My responsibility is to de-risk projects early and position assets for the next stage of growth.
Throughout my career, I’ve learned to trust my instincts and move even when the path isn’t fully obvious. A mantra I often share is: “Don’t wait for the green light. Move when the path is still foggy. By the time it’s clear, it’s already crowded.” Acting decisively, focusing on value, and creating momentum have guided every project, every deal, and every venture I’ve been part of.
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