Exclusive interview with Ian Quint, CEO of Brasswater: a bold and inspiring entrepreneur
A promising start to the series: a rooftop meeting with a real estate visionary
I had the opportunity to begin my series of interviews with entrepreneurs with Ian Quint, CEO of Brasswater, a real estate development firm. The company owns the building where the first Joy will open in December 2025. This is also where Brasswater has set up its new offices.
13 million square feet: Brasswater's rapid growth
Ian is an impressive entrepreneur. He founded Brasswater 10 years ago, and today, at only 45, he manages a real estate portfolio of over 13 million square feet in Canada and the United States, with an annual growth of approximately 3 million square feet.
An accessible leader with a relaxed style
What struck me most about meeting Ian was his relaxed style and his approachability. I was delighted to learn more about him during this interview, which took place on the building's rooftop terrace.
His very first "cold plunge"... and he dives in headfirst!
It was his very first time doing a cold plunge. Despite being a triathlete, Ian had never tried the experience. Being very competitive by nature, he took on the challenge: a 10-minute immersion ending with a full head-first dive!
"It was really not as bad as I imagined! And it's true that you feel great afterwards. I'm ready to go make deals."
Discipline, sport, and sobriety: his keys to staying on top
To stay at the peak of his physical and mental form, Ian relies on regular exercise and never consumes alcohol. This rigor allows him to perform consistently in a demanding sector like real estate.
The source of his greatest joy: his daughter Kennedy
When asked what brings him the most joy right now, Ian answers without hesitation: his 3-year-old daughter, Kennedy. A touching answer that speaks volumes about his priorities.
The heart of success: the quality of human relationships
According to Ian, his greatest secret to success in business is the quality of human relationships:
"I started my career working for my uncle, and I saw the impact of running a business without prioritizing good human relationships. I decided I was going to start my own business and manage it differently, by putting that at the heart of everything I do."
His entrepreneurial mantra: go for it without listening to others
His motto?
"Don't listen to others. Go for it!"
Ian claims that if he had listened to the warnings and doubts of those around him, he would never have started. He deeply believes in intuition, courage, and self-confidence.
Soon: an even healthier life thanks to the Joy Wellness Social Club
In the future, Ian wants to pay more attention to his diet and incorporate conscious breathing and relaxation techniques. Once Joy opens its doors, he plans to incorporate daily workouts and cold plunges, right below his office!
Ian Quint: the image of a new, human, and aligned leadership
I believe that Ian embodies the new style of leader: relaxed, accessible, focused on human relationships, and supported by a healthy lifestyle. He stays connected to what matters most, especially through the love he has for his daughter, and soon, he will be able to recharge in a space designed for well-being: the Joy Wellness Social Club.
