Meet Stephen DabousStephen Dabous, Managing Partner, The DGroup Inc. |
When did you work for Deloitte, and what did you do?
I worked for Deloitte from 1997 to the end of 2000. I was a Director, of Business Development.
What was the highlight of your time with Deloitte?
I have lots of great experiences and memories from my days at Deloitte. Without a doubt, one of the key highlights was being part of the design and creation of what we called Deloitte Ventures. It’s become a key part of what I do today.
Which organization did you join after you left Deloitte?
I went back to being an entrepreneur and reshaped my own incorporated company,
The DGroup Inc. I started with an engagement with Data Return, a U.S.-based managed services firm. From there I did a bunch of strategy/consulting assignments with early-stage companies like Cyence International and PlateSpin, and bigger ones like Microsoft and HP. That all led me to what I do today.
What do you do now?
As Managing Partner of the DGroup, I work with early-stage, high potential companies advising on growth, partnering and exit strategies. To complement that, I continue to manage and strengthen our ecosystem of great partners - I believe that’s what sets us apart.
What’s the best part of your current job?
Hmmm, there are lots of great parts to my job. But I guess the best thing is knowing that I’m fortunate enough to be doing what I love to do. And knowing that I can work with who I want and do things (usually) on my own terms. As for the bigger picture, I also like to think I’m playing a small role in helping Canada shift towards developing more of an innovation economy - something I believe is crucial for our kids and for the future of our country.
What’s the secret of your success?
Staying connected with my family and friends. For me, it’s about attitude, relationships, and “the journey”. I guess I got lucky by having great parents and great people in my life to help show me the way.
Why did you join the Toronto Consulting Alumni group?
Deloitte’s an exceptional firm, made up of exceptional people. The way I look at it, staying connected to that type of network can only make me better. Some of these folks are now what I would consider lifelong friends.
What book are you currently reading?
I only read a complete book about once or twice a year. I’m more of a Coles Notes - magazine article -whitepaper - skimmer type of guy. However, I just happen to be reading a book right now called “Why.” It’s written by Fernando Rego Sr., a Toronto-based clothier and entrepreneur. It’s based on his life learnings.
What’s on your iPod?
I continually rotate playlists from my iTunes library that’s on my MacBook Pro. My music ranges from obscure unknowns to the (almost complete) Bob Dylan collection. One of the projects we worked on while I was at Deloitte was a venture called World Web Entertainment. Part of that was thinking through an early model of what iTunes is today. I guess this stuff just gets stuck in your blood.
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