Today’s Notable Young Professional is Stone Tile International Director of Corporate Development Daniel Sultan, who’s company is changing the way the surface industry is perceived in Canada. We caught up with him to find out what inspired his career and where he sees himself in five years…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
As Director of Corporate Development at Stone Tile International, I focus on developing and implementing new management systems, and assessing new growth and investment opportunities. One of my biggest projects recently has been initiating our Corporate Development program at Stone Tile, and expanding our product line into wood.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I remember when I was younger, driving around to architecture and design studios in the back seat of my mother’s car, listening to her speak so passionately about the unique selection of stones, ceramics and porcelain she kept in her trunk. She says I must have learned my love for the industry through osmosis. When I was 14, I had two options for how I could spend my summer: go to camp, or work for Stone Tile, which my mother had begun to build into a much larger business. I chose to work, and I fell in love right away. I saw my mother creating a business – and changing the way the surface industry was perceived in Canada – and I had to be a part of it. I haven’t looked back since.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
Every day is different, and that’s why I love coming to work. But the constant variety can be a challenge as well. We’re constantly transforming the way we think about doing business – from our brand, to our clientele and the products we bring in. Stone Tile International has evolved significantly since we started, which forces us constantly rethink and reimagine our business model.
What is one sign that you’ve seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
Lack of sleep. My mind is always running with a million thoughts.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Definitely as a leader at Stone Tile alongside the rest of our team, pushing the limits of the surfaces industry to new heights, coming up with new concepts for our business and our brand.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge was also something I really care about, and that’s earning and maintaining earning trust and confidence from the rest of the Stone Tile team. I started very young, and of course it’s a family business.
I’ve really worked to better the company for our staff and our clients. I got to know most of the staff early on and I listened to what they wanted out of a company. Through a lot of patience, perseverance and hard work, I started to see small wins. I’ve had to really manage my expectations for growth, because change takes time. But our Stone Tile team is like one big family now. It’s been an amazing evolution and we’re continuing to grow together.
What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
Money doesn’t equal happiness; building a company that our customers and employees love drives me every day. Success is about the pursuit of something no one else has achieved. I think you can see this in Stone Tile; in the service we provide our customers, the products we bring in from around the world, our high-design marketing, and our enthusiastic company culture.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Starting the wood division for Stone Tile. We offer an extensive line of wood – designs you won’t see anywhere else in Canada, from 3D-like patterns, to obscure colours and sizes. It’s really helped to separate us from our competitors and connect even further with our customers. We’re becoming a one-stop-shop, which has always been my vision for Stone Tile. It’s really rewarding.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Work hard, be patient, stay strong, and always lead by example.
Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
There’s no way I can possibly choose just one. Toronto has so many great places; we’re living in a world-class city!
When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
Watching sports and relaxing with my girlfriend and our friends.
Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
South Beach. It’s really not too far, and it has a certain magic to it. Beautiful people and beautiful architecture.
If you had to choose a theme song, what would it be?
We Will Rock You by Queen.
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
Maybe something in real estate. I always loved the idea of making something better than it was the day before.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I’m co-chair for the Jays Care young professionals committee, a charity that helps underprivileged kids in high-risk areas across Canada.
What to you is notable?
Notable is someone who dares to be bold, respected and admired, but always stays grounded, kid and humble.
BlackBerry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
Android… but I miss my BlackBerry keyboard.