Q&A with Christian Thomson, Forty Under 40 Winner 2020; Co-founder and CEO, Theory+Practice, Age 36
Who or what is responsible for your work ethic?
Growing up in a single-parent, low-income home in England taught me that if I wanted something, I had to earn it.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Entering awards for people under 40.
What is the best book you would recommend?
Purple Cow – super simple concept that’s missed by many.
Now that you’re entering your 40s, what goals have you set for yourself?
Stay alive a bit longer. Stretch more.
Choose one of these five childhood career dreams: Rock star, star athlete, prime minister, astronaut, detective.
I would choose to be a rock star.
Name your happiest place.
Where I am now.
Advice you would give your 20-year-old self?
Dave didn’t do it. Sarah was actually right. You’re going to have twins so pace yourself.
What is your best habit?
Surfing every day to balance desk time. A healthy body equals a healthy mind.
Tell us one improbable fact about yourself.
I was paid $5,000 for 20 minutes of work in a studio fake surfing for a McDonald’s Cup that went global.
Best piece of advice ever received?
“Pay your taxes and stay out of jail” – Steve Skinner.
What career highlight are you most proud of?
Aside from being nominated for the 40 Under 40, I would say Marwick ranking as the 11th Fastest Growing Company in B.C. in 2020, Premier Google Partner Agency for eight years, surfing in the World Longboard Championships in 2019, being a dad to three awesome children – Dylan, Summer and Joel – and a husband to Theresa.
