Technology and Communications
Geoffrey Thompson Vintri Technologies Inc. Calgary
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intri Technologies is focused on solving material traceability and providing electronic supply chain data to pipeline, supply and service companies. President Geoffrey Thompson’s vision and design was to create and provide clients with pipeline supply chain data that offers 100% data integrity — and he succeeded. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? I have had an entrepreneur mentality since a paper route at age 12. After working for a multinational technology and consulting corporation, I knew I wanted to lead and build companies, rather than being a part of a large organization. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? I go by this statement by Wayne Gretzky: “I skate to where the puck is going to be, not where it has been.” It’s important to move toward where the market is going, not where the market may be at the moment. How are you reshaping the world? Vintri is changing the way pipelines and their service sectors operate. What have you done to ensure your company remains innovative and entrepreneurial? We hired the best people who bring talent and dedication to the company, established a culture of innovation and constantly challenged the status quo.
What’s your legacy? “To have successfully built four worldclass technology companies and have helped develop talented people who lead successful careers based on the mentorship and leadership provided.“
What’s the toughest feedback you’ve ever received and how did you learn from it? I received advice to change my management approach to work within a knowledgebased industry. I took an executive coaching program and transformed from commander-in-chief to leading and mentoring. What motivates you? Building world-class companies and working with great teams of people.
My advice for entrepreneurs is to never settle. Always continue to achieve your vision and the rewards will be worth it. EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
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