Key Highlights

1. Embark on an inspiring journey with Ryan D'Souza, a recent Business in Vancouver Forty Under 40 winner, as he rises from humble beginnings in Guest Services to President of JP Lease. How did an eight-year stint at Fairmont and a strong entrepreneurial spirit catapult him to industry success?

2. Delve into D'Souza's firm belief in the power of mentorship and its vital role in personal and professional growth. How have structured mentorship programs and CEO forums shaped his career and influenced his commitment to giving back to the community?

3. Discover D'Souza's passion for the automotive industry and his strategic risk-taking in investing in electric vehicles despite current market challenges. How does this car enthusiast's love for sustainability and forward-thinking mindset set him apart as an industry leader?

Introduction

Ryan D’Souza is a recent Business in Vancouver Forty Under 40 winner and an inspiring figure in the automotive industry. In our exclusive interview, Ryan discussed his career trajectory, the lessons he's learned along the way, and the importance of mentorship in personal and professional growth.

From Humble Beginnings to Success

Ryan's journey began with an eight-year stint in Guest Services at Fairmont, where he worked his way through university. This formative experience taught him the importance of understanding people and the value of exceptional customer service. After a brief period at EMKAY, he moved to JP Lease and began climbing the ranks, largely due to the company's entrepreneurial spirit and the opportunities it presented for growth and innovation.

At JP Lease, Ryan found an environment where hard work, dedication, and intelligence were recognized and rewarded. The company offered him challenges early in his tenure and encouraged him to run with his ideas, allowing him to add and expand verticals within the organization. Ryan also benefited from having supportive mentors who helped him navigate the industry and refine his skills.

The Power of Peer Groups and Mentorship

During his time at JP Lease, Ryan discovered MacKay CEO Forums through a referral from a former president. MacKay CEO Forums provided him with a sounding board for shared experiences, advice, and personal development. As Ryan points out, "What got you here won't get you there," emphasizing the importance of learning and evolving with your business.

Ryan firmly believes in the power of mentorship and its ability to give back to the community. He has been actively involved in structured mentorship programs through organizations like the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade and in universities, where he shares his experiences and insights with the next generation of industry leaders.

A Passion for Cars and Taking Calculated Risks

Beyond his professional achievements, Ryan has always been a car enthusiast. He has attended the BMW racing school and hit the track several times, fuelling his dream of racing cars. This passion for the automotive industry translates into his willingness to take calculated risks in his work.

One such risk is investing in the electric vehicle market, despite its current challenges and limited product availability. Ryan recognizes the importance of sustainability in the automotive industry and believes that early investment in electric vehicles is crucial for the future of the planet. This forward-thinking mindset sets him apart as a leader in the industry.

The Future: Growth, Legacy, and Culture

Looking ahead, Ryan has ambitious plans for his future with JP Lease, both domestically and in the US market. As a leader within a well-funded and nimble organization, he aims to continue growing the company organically while acquiring products and services that would be too difficult to develop internally.

A key aspect of this growth strategy is preserving the strong culture and values that have shaped JP Lease for over 62 years. Ryan understands the importance of staying true to the company's roots while embracing change and innovation. He is committed to making thoughtful decisions regarding expansion, whether that involves entering new markets, acquiring complementary products or services, or strengthening the team.

In conclusion, Ryan D'Souza's journey from Manager to President of JP Lease in ten years is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the importance of mentorship. His dedication to personal and professional growth and his passion for the automotive industry make him an inspiring figure for aspiring entrepreneurs and industry professionals alike. We look forward to witnessing his continued success in the years to come.