I recently joined the Rypple team, responsible for business development. I’m originally from Toronto and, after more than a decade abroad helping to grow a startup to over $100 million, I wanted to come back and do the same here. I’ve lived in the USA (Boston), the UK (Cambridge and London), and have done business around the world. There is a ton of potential in Canada for innovation and I’m excited to be part of a transformative startup here. We need more.

Why did I join Rypple?

• The people. This is a talented, motivated team of individuals who get things done.
• The product. Rypple is changing the way people interact in the workplace – making it easier (and more fun) than ever to get feedback from peers, bosses, clients, etc., to help refine skills, customer service, etc.
• The community. Rypple has incredibly active and informed users and advisers!

The top lessons I’ve learned over the years that I will apply at Rypple are:

• Listen. Actively engage end-users, analysts, reporters, friends, etc., as they all can help inform and validate your strategy.
• Choose wisely. When you’re passionate about a problem it’s easy to build up a backlog of ideas that could consume you forever. It’s ok to do a lot but stay focused on what matters to customers and partners and you’ll win.
• Embrace change. Make sure you’re equipped with the product, tools, and work ethic to take full advantage of new opportunities and overcome challenges.
• Play to win. This one is self-explanatory.

What I’ve learned so far on the job at Rypple:

• Companies of all types and sizes thrive on feedback. Feedback is fundamental.
• Rypple is easier than expected to sell (you can try before you buy!).
• Rypple’s customer service is second to none and that goes a long way.