Michael Broccolini: Today’s Notable Young Professional

Today's Notable Young Professional is Montreal real estate maven Michael Broccolini, whose team recently opened a new office in Toronto and is currently working on a project that will make a lasting impression on Montreal's skyline. We caught up with him to find out what inspires his work and what advice he would share with other young professionals…

Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
Loaded question! I oversee our new Toronto office, am involved in business development, real estate development, and corporate finance, and I oversee our marketing initiatives.

Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I always wanted to work for Broccolini. Hearing my father and uncles talk about the business at family gatherings piqued my interest in a big way. The family dynamic of working in a family business is very exciting. There's a lot of passion to go around!

What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part of my day is seeking out new opportunities. It is rare a day goes by where I don't meet someone new or a potential opportunity arises. The most challenging part is staying focused.

What is one sign that you've seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
Getting a fever or a bad cold. It always happens at the same time of year, when I am most tired.

Where do you see yourselves in five years?
Building a family. I got married last year and we have a baby on the way. Hopefully the family will be growing in a few years!

What is one major challenge that you've had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
The usual cliché of being young in an older industry. The best way to overcome that challenge is to be passionate and hard working. Respect will follow. If you have the passion, your learning curve will be exponential and you will catch up to those with more working experience in a hurry.

What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
Being respected and sought after means a lot. If you are sought after, good things always follow.

What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Starting construction of our L'Avenue project in front of the Bell Centre in Montreal. The project will become a beacon in Montreal's skyline when completed next year.

Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Follow your passion.

Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
My favourite restaurant in Montreal is Beatrice (BICE).

When you're not working how do you love to spend your "Me" time?
I love travelling and love watching sports.

Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
Capri. Most beautiful place I've been to.

If you had to choose a theme song, what would it be?
Good Vibrations by Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch.

If you weren't doing what you're doing, what would you be doing?
Never thought of it. I would probably be working for the Montreal Canadiens in some capacity.

Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I am on the committees for Starlight and Hold 'Em For Life (raises funds for Cancer research). Obviously Starlight is a great cause as it raises money for families that are going through difficult times with their young ones. Hold'em is a great fundraiser for cancer research that leads to important medical breakthroughs.

What to you is notable?
Our growing presence in the Toronto market.

BlackBerry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone. Took me a long time to lose my BlackBerry!