2010 Recipient: Carl Nappert, 37

Vice-president sales and marketing, Maplesoft Group

Company profile: Maplesoft Group is a dynamic, fully integrated service and solutions company in consulting and technology.

Education: Bachelors of Commerce, University of Ottawa (1997).

Biggest biz achievement: Create a business and working environment where every partner feels empowered and key to the company's success.

Biggest biz obstacle: Managing the exponential growth we have witnessed in the last five years has been as much rewarding as it has been challenging. The increase in personnel, the risk inherent in buying other businesses, and the new built-in expertise have made for interesting times.

Biggest lesson learned in business: I have learned that clear and effective communication between decision-makers and employees is essential in creating a professional business environment. Without it, your team lacks vision, direction, and motivation.

Three words that best describe you: Competitive, Positive & Charismatic

Charitable or non-profit involvement: Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation

Biggest influence: My uncle Norman who was a bank manager and taught me how to be cautious and analytical in my career moves and business decisions. He has also taught me humility and honesty.

First job: Picking strawberries.

Favourite pastime: Fishing and hunting.

Favourite travel destination: Montepulciano, Italy.

Favourite book: Good to Great, by Jim Collins.

Favourite movie: Donnie Brasco.