Q&A with Ziad Boustany, Forty Under 40 Winner 2021; CEO, RAM Group of Companies, Age 39
Who or what is responsible for your work ethic?
My father. Having lived during tougher times in Lebanon and having to raise five children, he was always busy making sure he provided us the opportunities he never had.
What is your guilty pleasure?
I like to enjoy a good cigar and whiskey from time to time.
What is the best book you would recommend?
Good to Great by Jim Collins has some great takeaways for managers in any organization.
Now that you are (or are close to) entering your forties, what goals have you set for yourself?
Expand the RAM Group services geographically across Canada. We build amazing infrastructure in B.C. and Alberta and my dream is to see us contributing to the eastern provinces.
What was your childhood career dream?
I wanted to be a mechanical engineer and design cars.
Name your happiest place.
My happiest place is spending time with my family at our cabin on Green Lake.
What was your toughest business or professional decision?
In 2016, we had to make the tough decision on whether to remain a small, efficient consulting firm or make the leap to re-invest in ourselves and make acquisitions to grow exponentially.
What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
Spend time finding the right mentor who has walked the path you wish to embark on.
What is your best habit?
I have a habit of catching up with a colleague or friend daily, whether over a text, call or in person. It has helped me stay connected with people since my childhood and all over the world.
Tell us one improbable fact about yourself.
Although I enjoy the city life, I am most happy when I am in a remote place, hunting or fishing and cooking on an open fire.
Best piece of advice ever received?
The harder you work, the luckier you get. Opportunities always present themselves in life but you have to be prepared and ready to capture them in the first place.
Biggest learning (about life or business) during the pandemic?
To find the opportunity in every situation. Those who pivoted and catered to new demand in the market did very well.
What career highlight are you most proud of?
Growing businesses aside, and as a civil engineer at heart, I am most proud to have been a part of the teams that built infrastructure in B.C., such as the Canada Line subway and Highway 17. Something about driving down a highway you spent years building is very satisfying.
