While Philip Heming took flight in higher learning, the entrepreneur’s success remains grounded in the tried-and-true business ethos of “work hard and treat people well.”
Heming, general manager of Central Park Business Centre, flourished at McGill University’s Desautels Faculty of Management. Studying strategic management and entrepreneurship, Heming received a scholarship for top academic marks and made dean’s honour roll as a varsity athlete.
In school, sport or business, there are many variables that can affect an outcome. However, the one thing always in a person’s control is his or her effort – a value Heming embraces.
“While some people … have come up with amazing startup ideas, my strength is coming into a situation and being able to work and energize the team and create genuine relationships,” said Heming. “In sports, school and business, that extra gear for work ethic definitely helped me be successful.”
Following graduation, Heming had stints providing business strategy and analysis both for companies in-house and through his own consulting practice. However, Heming wanted something to fully own his time, energy and interests. So, he sold his condo and crafted a business plan to secure financing to buy Vancouver’s Central Park Business Centre at the end of 2012.
As a 25-year-old walking into an established operation, the experience was “somewhat daunting,” but Heming knew the first order of business was earning the respect of his customers and staff.
“[First] just gaining their trust by being extremely respectful and genuine and looking after them because at the end of the day they spend the majority of the time at the workplace,” said Heming. “I never came in to a situation acting like a dictator. I’m more willing to help with all of the hands-on work while also managing. I think they respected that.”
Recently, Heming diversified his interests by acquiring and “re-energizing” Wavor Wire, a manufacturing business that supports the Canadian recycling industry. Wavor Wire, Heming said, just came off its best year.
Join us to celebrate the 2016 Forty under under 40 Awards January 25, 2017 at the Vancouver Convention Centre. For tickets and event info visit www.biv.com/events/40under40.
