BIV is proud to recognize Chris Thom, portfolio manager at Odlum Brown Ltd., and 39 exceptional business leaders with 2022 Forty under 40 Awards.
Each recipient is featured in BIV's annual Forty under 40 Magazine, and will be celebrated at an awards gala Feb. 22. Profiles of each award recipient – originally published in the magazine – will be available at biv.com in the days ahead.
Who or what is responsible for your work ethic?
My parents. They are both very hard workers and always told me that one of the only things I could control was to make sure I was the hardest worker on the field, ice or in the room.
What drives you?
I always want to make sure I do what I say. If I set a goal or make a promise, I make sure to accomplish it.
A favourite book you would recommend?
David and Goliath by Malcolm Gladwell.
Now that you are (or are close to) entering your 40s, what goals have you set for yourself?
To keep building great relationships and making an impact. I love what I do and working with my clients. If I can keep expanding on that I will be very happy. With wrestling there is still lots of opportunity for growth and I want to be a leader.
What was your childhood career dream?
I knew I wanted to work in business, preferably in the stock market. As a young kid I would research penny stocks with my grandfather and check the paper in the morning to see where they were at. I learned a few lessons early and fell in love with it.
What was your toughest business or professional decision?
I think just sticking with it. I started in the business in 2008, which was a very challenging time in the financial world. There were a few pretty lean years at the start and it was hard, but I knew there were good things to come.
What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
Be patient. If you want something that will take a few years, you don’t need it to be done right now. Let things develop and don’t try to rush it.
What is your best habit?
Time management.
Tell us one improbable fact about yourself.
I can ride a unicycle.
Best piece of advice ever received?
To focus on relationships. Surround yourself with good and smart people.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned in business?
If an investment looks too cheap, there could be a reason. The market often knows something that isn’t clear at first glance, so it is important to do you own due diligence.
What career highlight are you most proud of?
I am proud that I have balanced building a great business, having a loving family, growing a sport that means a lot to me and giving back to the community.
What’s left to accomplish?
Lots. I want to keep building great relationships and growing my business. With wrestling, I will rest once we have the biggest club in the universe so there’s still a long way to go.
Read the profiles of all 40 award recipients in BIV's annual Forty under 40 Magazine. Register to recognize this year's winner at the Forty under 40 Awards gala on Feb. 22.
