Birthplace: Ottawa
Company: Claridge does real estate development and construction.
Education: Bachelor of commerce, McGill University (2002)
OBJ360 (Sponsored)
Investing in the next generation: Ottawa businesses encouraged to build futures through mentorship
Do you remember the mentor in your life who helped shape your career? In the business world, success often depends on the connections we build, fuelled by guidance and support
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
Charitable involvement: Malhotra Family Foundation
Biggest biz achievement: Overseeing the continued growth of the construction department at Claridge Homes.
Biggest biz obstacle: Earning my own credibility within a family-owned company.
Biggest influences: My parents, Bill and Romina Malhotra, and my wife, Louise Malhotra. My parents for the obvious reasons of raising me with proper values and work ethic in life. My wife Louise for supporting me and keeping me down to earth!
Biggest lesson learned: One must always keep an open mind and be willing to learn every single day. When I first started at Claridge, I felt like I knew it all. It did not take too long to see the actual domino effects of bad decision-making. I realized I was only scratching the surface, and it took me a long time to actually start to make wiser decisions, by listening and learning and, more importantly, understanding the deeper issues at hand.
First job: Sales assistant at one of our housing sites
Advice I’d give the younger me: Be more patient.
What’s left to do: Everything! I am enjoying the ride so far and can’t wait to see what is the next chapter in my life at work and at home with my beautiful young family.
Favourite pastime: Coaching my four young children in various sports.
I’m currently reading: The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest by Stieg Larsson
Favourite movie: Coming to America
Favourite song: Run This Town by Jay-Z, feat. Rihanna and Kanye West
Favourite local pro sports team: Ottawa Senators
Favourite local summer event: Canada Day
Preferred social media platform: Facebook
