Matthew Carr, president, Gifford Carr Insurance Group

Matthew Carr
Matthew Carr
Editor's Note

Each year, OBJ and the Ottawa Board of Trade honour 40 of the region’s top young entrepreneurs, business executives and civic leaders and recognize them for their professional achievements, expertise and community service.
Click here to see the full list of the 2021 recipients and click here to watch the special broadcast honouring the year’s recipients.

2021-06-09

Business: Property and casualty insurance brokerage

Born: Ottawa

Biggest business achievement: Took over and managed the business when my dad was terminally ill. Then took over the business during a pandemic. In both cases, I grew the business the following year.

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Biggest obstacle overcome: The passing of my father, and taking over the company in the pandemic.

Biggest influences: My parents, who taught me the value of hard work, as well as Jim Mahood, who forced me to challenge my thinking from different angles.

Biggest lesson learned during COVID-19: Own it. Making decisions and trying to get consensus at the start of the pandemic was difficult with things changing hourly. I ultimately had to make decisions, move forward and adjust if necessary.

Charitable involvement: Gifford Carr Gives Back Initiative

First job: Greens crew at a golf course

Advice I’d give the younger me: The same thing my dad always said to me: “It’s better to be seen than heard.” I’d add, “Always do the right thing, no matter the cost.”

Favourite pastime: Relaxing with my family and friends at the cottage, or golfing.

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