Kaveh Oskoui, RCM
Designation(s): OLCM, RCM, PMP
Company: Forest Hill Kipling Group Inc.
Year entered the profession: 2019
Year RCM obtained: 2021
Other education: I am currently enrolled in the Building Environmental Systems program at Seneca College, where I actively seek to enhance my industry skills. I am also dedicated to obtaining a green belt in Six Sigma, further demonstrating my commitment to excellence. My educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in health care administration and management, as well as a graduate certificate in project management and a post-graduate certificate in project management. Furthermore, I have also earned a certificate in regulatory affairs and various leadership and mental health certificates.
Mentor(s) in the industry: Under the guidance of Mr. Babak Ardalan, I embarked on my journey as a Condominium Manager. Babak’s unwavering passion for our industry and exceptional service to our community has been truly inspiring. Today, I am fortunate to be surrounded by two remarkable colleagues, Ms. Gowri Shakti and Mr. Laurent Trembley, who continue to provide me with invaluable leadership. Gowri and Laurent are exceptional leaders themselves, consistently fostering an environment of professionalism and nurturing growth within our close-knit Forest Hill Kipling family.
What path brought you to a career as a condominium manager? With nearly two decades of experience in facilities, service delivery, and project management, I found myself at a crossroads as the IT industry continued to evolve. During this time, a colleague introduced me to the world of condominium management. Drawing upon my transferable budgeting, forecasting, and contract management skills, the transition from the commercial side of the business to the residential and condominium sector was surprisingly smooth. Throughout this journey, I have been fortunate to work alongside exceptional colleagues who have been instrumental in helping me navigate the intricacies of the industry. They have provided invaluable support in understanding the ever-changing legislation that impacts our careers and communities. Together, we have tackled numerous challenging situations, and their guidance has been instrumental in my growth as a condominium manager. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with such a dedicated and knowledgeable team, and I look forward to continuing to learn and contribute to the success of our communities.
How has your membership in ACMO helped you in your career? Being a member of ACMO has played a pivotal role in my professional journey. ACMO has not only fostered an environment conducive to growth and development but has also consistently set the bar high by upholding industry standards. Through ACMO, I have gained access to a wealth of knowledge and resources that have been instrumental in my success as a condominium manager. ACMO, along with industry partners, has been a reliable source of relevant information, keeping me updated on the latest trends, regulations, and best practices in the industry. This has allowed me to stay ahead of the curve and provide the highest level of service to my clients and communities. I am grateful for the support and guidance that ACMO has provided throughout my career. It has truly been a cornerstone of my success, and I am proud to be a part of an organization that continuously strives for excellence in our industry.
What is one must-have skill for a condominium manager? Why? Resourcefulness is indeed a crucial skill for a condominium manager. In our role, we constantly rely on our network of colleagues, professionals, and even personal connections to seek support and find solutions. Whether it’s reaching out for recommendations on service providers or seeking advice on maintaining a healthy work-life balance, resourcefulness plays a vital role in our daily life. One topic that I don’t believe receives enough attention in our industry is the importance of mental health and the need to address it proactively. The demanding and high-stress nature of our jobs makes it essential to be resourceful in prioritizing our well-being. This may involve seeking guidance from trusted individuals, attending workshops or seminars, or even implementing self-care practices that help us maintain a healthy work-life balance. By being resourceful, we can tap into our network’s collective knowledge and experiences, enabling us to find innovative solutions and support systems. It allows us to navigate the challenges of our profession more effectively and ensures that we are equipped to provide the best possible service to our communities.
Tell us about a personal success story on the job. Success can be defined in various ways; for me, it means leaving a lasting positive impact. While it’s impossible to please everyone, my goal as a condominium manager is to approach every situation with a win-win attitude. By striving for mutually beneficial outcomes, I aim to create a harmonious environment that benefits both the residents and the community. One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is the opportunity to foster a sense of community among the residents. By organizing events and initiatives that bring people together, I have witnessed firsthand the transformation of a group of individuals into a close-knit community. It brings me immense joy to see residents actively engaging with one another and taking pride in their shared living space. The office had become a hub for community events and planning, earning me the endearing nickname of “Mayor” from the residents. This recognition is a testament to our positive impact in building a sense of belonging and camaraderie within the community.
What’s your biggest challenge as a manager? Remaining resilient and not taking comments and accusations personally is crucial in our role as condominium managers. Operating in a high-stress environment with fiduciary responsibilities to our employers and customers, we often encounter unjust comments, complaints to regulatory authorities, and accusations. While these behaviours may be somewhat common in today’s world, it is essential to develop strategies to effectively deal with them and maintain a focus on positive results. In my earlier years as a condominium manager, I found it challenging to navigate through these situations. However, I have developed a method to handle such challenges with resilience over time. Instead of allowing negative comments and accusations to affect me personally, I focus on the bigger picture and the positive outcomes I can achieve. I understand that not everyone will be on board with my approach, but I firmly believe that we can make a difference by staying focused on positive results. By adopting this mindset, we can rise above the negativity and continue working toward the community’s best interests.
What’s your favourite part of the job? One of the most rewarding aspects of being a condominium manager is the opportunity for social interaction. I have always believed in promoting an open-door policy where everyone, including pets and children, is welcomed. This inclusive approach has proven to be an effective way to build connections with residents who may not have otherwise connected with staff or one another for years. Creating a welcoming environment makes residents feel comfortable approaching the management team with their concerns, ideas, and even just for a friendly chat. This open-door policy has allowed me to foster a sense of community and belonging within the condominium. It has also provided a platform for residents to interact with one another, forming friendships and support networks that enhance their overall living experience. I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact of this approach. Residents who were once strangers have become friends, organizing social events and creating a vibrant community atmosphere. Pets and children add an extra layer of warmth and liveliness to the environment, further strengthening the bonds between residents.
Best business advice you ever received. The management office is not solely my personal space but a shared space for the residents. This mindset is crucial in fostering a sense of inclusivity and ensuring that residents feel comfortable and welcome in the office. By recognizing that the office belongs to the community, I strive to create an environment where residents feel empowered to visit and utilize the space as needed. Whether they have questions or concerns or simply want to engage in conversation, this will encourage residents to use the office as a resource. This approach helps to break down barriers and establish a sense of accessibility.
Answer this statement – I am an RCM because… I chose to become an RCM (Registered Condominium Manager) because I am passionate about raising the bar in the industry. I believe in promoting a sense of professionalism and continuously striving for excellence in my role. Becoming an RCM allows me to demonstrate my commitment to upholding the highest standards and providing the best possible service to my clients and communities. Being an RCM allows me to take on new challenges and grow personally and professionally. The condominium management field is constantly growing and evolving, and by staying current with industry trends and regulations, I can expand my knowledge and skills. This continuous growth benefits me as an individual and enables me to serve my clients’ needs better, my employer’s success, and contribute to the overall advancement of the industry. Being an RCM is more than just a title; it is a commitment to professionalism, ongoing education, and ethical conduct. We can make a positive impact by embracing the responsibilities and opportunities that come with being an RCM.
Where do you see yourself in five years? In five years, I envision myself in a leadership and mentoring role within the condominium management industry. Over the past couple of years, I have had the opportunity to coach and mentor new condominium managers. I have found great fulfillment in sharing my experiences and knowledge with others. I plan to continue this path of mentorship and guidance, as I believe in supporting and nurturing the next generation of professionals in our field. By sharing my insights, offering career advice, and providing guidance, I hope to contribute to the growth and development of aspiring condominium managers. By combining my passion for mentoring and leadership, I hope to create a lasting legacy by empowering and inspiring others in their professional journeys. I believe that by sharing experiences and knowledge, we can collectively elevate the standards and professionalism within the industry, ultimately benefiting both professionals and the communities we serve. In addition to mentoring, I also aspire to take on a leadership role within the industry. Whether through involvement in professional organizations, serving on committees, or taking on managerial positions, I aim to make a positive impact and help shape condominium management’s future, mentoring and guiding others while making a meaningful impact on the condominium management industry.
What recent project that you completed can we highlight? A project I recently completed was the urgent replacement of a cooling tower at YCC163, one of the older condominium corporations in Toronto. This project presented unique challenges due to the ongoing lockdowns and pandemic and its impact on the supply chain. With the weather rapidly changing and residents demanding a solution, it became clear that immediate action was necessary. However, suppliers faced inventory shortages, making the situation even more complex. In response, I became a persistent problem-solver, continuously reaching out to our partners, asking difficult questions, and offering creative suggestions. We obtained a permit to close Yonge Street for a weekend through collaboration and perseverance. This allowed us to safely deliver and install a new cooling tower almost 30 stories above the street to serve our residents. The process was not only a proud moment for me but also created lasting memories for the local residents who witnessed the unique sight of a cooling tower being hoisted into place, resembling a ski lift. This project exemplified the importance of adaptability, resourcefulness, and effective communication. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic and supply chain disruptions, we found a solution that met the community’s urgent needs. It was a testament to the dedication and collaboration of all involved.
