Business with Fort St. John office confirms merger with fellow consulting firm

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Two businesses have merged to create one of B.C.’s largest consulting firms.

According to a joint statement by DWB Consulting Services and Chartwell Resource Group, the companies’ combined platform will allow them to provide province-wide coverage while maintaining service in local communities.

It says the newly combined company will employ nearly 300 people across B.C., including at the current DWB offices in Fort St. John and Chetwynd, offering services in environmental management, forestry, engineering and mapping.

Kevin Bedford, CEO of DWB, said the merger will help strengthen the business and create opportunities for staff and clients.

“As one company, we can better share and grow our industry knowledge, talent and relationships,” he stated.

Cliff Roberts, CEO of Chartwell, emphasized continuity and communication during the transition.

“Our priority is to ensure our clients, partners and employees continue to receive the support they need,” Roberts said.

Roberts will serve as president and CEO of the new organization. Bedford will become executive vice-president.

For now, both companies will continue to operate under the Chartwell and DWB brands. A single unified brand is planned for the future.

Employees from both firms remain significant shareholders, according to the release.

DWB operates offices in Fort St. John, Prince George, Williams Lake, Chetwynd, Penticton and Cranbrook.

Chartwell, formed in 2021 through a merger of two forestry consultancies, maintains four offices in B.C., including in North Vancouver and Chilliwack.