Age: 37
Birthplace: Ottawa
Company: Full-service real estate brokerage
OBJ360 (Sponsored)
Last month Ottawa Salus launched “Opening Doors to Dignity,” a $5-million campaign to construct a 54-unit independent living building on Capilano Drive. Set to open in late 2025, this innovative
How the uOttawa faculty of engineering instills an ‘entrepreneurial mindset’ in students
A decade ago, Terrafixing chief operating officer Vida Gabriel was a chemistry-loving student in high school with little to no interest in business or entrepreneurship. “I didn’t like the sales
Education: St. Mark High School (1999)
Charitable involvement: Gerry Lowe Memorial Foundation, Children’s Miracle Network.
Biggest biz achievement: The growth of my company over the past year-and-a-half. RE/MAX Affiliates now has nine locations throughout the Ottawa region. I am also proud of our company’s community involvement. I get to go to work every day with people who care about the communities they work in.
Biggest obstacle: Recovering from a broken back that I sustained while playing hockey in the minors. I was in rehab for a year-and-a-half, and I continue to have painful daily reminders of this injury. The physical injury was tough, but mentally it was even tougher because it brought my hockey career to an end. Transitioning from hockey to “real life” was difficult, but ultimately it has helped shape who I am today.
Biggest influence: My mom and dad, Mary and Jim Grimes, and my wife, Jacalyn Grimes. Their unwavering love, dedication and support have made me who I am. My mom has taught me compassion, loyalty and what it means to put family above all else. My dad has shaped me as a man, as a father and as a business owner. My wife has played the biggest role in the growth of our company. Her willingness to take calculated risks and never settle has propelled our growth. Her strong faith has carried us through many difficult periods. Life and business are team sports, and I have incredible linemates!
Biggest lesson learned: Stand by your principles. Some days that can be tough and cost you money, but in the long run your principles will define your company and separate you from your competition. As Thomas Jefferson said, “In the matters of style, swim with the current; in the matters of principle, stand like a rock.”
First job: Scrubbing golf clubs and cleaning golf carts at the Metcalfe Golf Club.
Advice I’d give the younger me: Invest in real estate!
What’s left to do: I’m 37 years old, and I’m just getting started. My personal and professional goals are constantly evolving. I think it is critical to have written goals for all areas of your life.
Favourite pastime: I love fishing, golfing, playing hockey and boating, but at this stage of my life I mostly love spending time with my wife and kids.
I’m currently reading: Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
Favourite movie: Slap Shot (never gets old!)
Favourite song: I’m a country boy at heart. Anything from Garth Brooks or Eric Church.
Favourite local pro sports team: Ottawa Senators
Favourite local summer event: Canada Day
Preferred social media platform: Facebook
