Home: Stoney Creek and North Bay, Ontario. Age: In my fifties. Birthplace: Montreal, Quebec. Profession: Business executive.
Current project: Pursuing a PhD in entrepreneurship and innovation. Recent recognition: Service as board chair of the Burlington Performing Arts Centre. What’s been your big (or biggest) leap? Real estate and land development. Hobbies: Anything outdoors. Recent travel or adventure: Property hunting in the Dominican Republic. Recently viewed and recommended: Anything by Harlan Coben.
Personality profile: Calm, witty and thoughtful. What one word would your closest friend use to describe you? Humble. Moral compass: Alignment between data and gut instinct. How do you define an ideal business relationship? Transparent, honest and open. What is your greatest joy? Animals, especially dogs. What is your favorite place (or way) to spend money? Dining out. What is at the top of your bucket list? Improving my golf game. What ingredient is essential to your perfect vacation? Stress-free relaxation.
What was your favorite childhood toy or game? Hockey. What’s prominently featured on your home or office wall? Artwork featuring nature, particularly pieces inspired by the Group of Seven. Besides your parents, who has had the greatest influence on your life? My grandfather. What’s the best advice you received in your career? Don’t try to be a perfectionist—sometimes good enough is good enough. What modern technology innovation do you most appreciate? The cloud. What is your favorite app? Google.
What message do you want to send out into the world?
Protect your reputation, commit to growth and treat people well.
What widely held belief do you reject? That countries need population growth to grow GDP. What mega-trend most concerns you? The proliferation of AI into multiple areas of our lives.
As a kid, what did you first want to be when you grew up? A marine biologist. After your loved ones, what object would you first save from your burning home? Old photo albums. How would you choose to spend tomorrow, if you knew it was your last day on earth? Sitting by a campfire at my country place with friends, family and my dog. What advice would you give your younger self? There is no need to rush through life. What period in your life would you do differently, if you could? My undergraduate years.
Personal mission: Balance—professional pursuits, community and people. Favorite quote: "Life is what happens to you when you're busy making other plans" (John Lennon).
