Michael Rustom’s career in the information technology (IT) sector has spanned decades, marked by success in sales, client relations, and leadership. Hailing from Toronto, Canada, Michael began his professional journey at Sun Microsystems of Canada Inc., where he handled key accounts, including one of the country’s largest banks, BMO Financial Group.
In 2005, Michael transitioned from client relations to sales, joining Scalar Decisions, where his exceptional performance led to rapid promotions. He ultimately became the Director of Sales for Ontario and Quebec, and later, Vice President of Sales. During his tenure, he expanded Scalar’s client base into sectors like mining, financial technology, and government.
In 2020, Michael became the Vice President of Business Operations at PCI, a Canadian aerospace and aviation company. Here, he was responsible for overseeing operations in areas such as sales, marketing, human resources, engineering, and consulting. Despite thriving in this role, Michael felt the growing pull of his entrepreneurial instincts. In 2022, he launched Michael Rustom Toronto Inc., a consulting firm where he helps clients successfully deliver IT projects and offers expert sales advice. Since its founding, Michael’s business has thrived, and he’s found both professional and personal fulfillment in running his own company.
We recently spoke with Michael about his transition from a corporate executive to an independent consultant and small business owner.
Q: What inspired you to leave your corporate career and start your own consulting business?
Michael Rustom: I’d been thinking about it for quite some time. About two years ago, I felt that I had gained enough experience and knowledge to go out on my own. I decided it was the right time to take control of my career and build something of my own.
Q: How has the transition from corporate executive to independent consultant been for you so far?
Michael Rustom: It’s been great, but it wasn’t without its challenges. If you’d asked me this six months in, I might’ve given a different answer. The early days were a steep learning curve. I was already familiar with IT and sales, but I had to learn the ins and outs of running a business—everything from taxes to managing all the administrative tasks on my own. The most challenging part was realizing that, as the business owner, I’m responsible for everything. Once I accepted that, things became much easier.
Q: What’s been the most fulfilling part of running Michael Rustom Inc.?
Michael Rustom: The most fulfilling part is seeing a project through to completion and knowing that I’ve made a significant impact on my clients’ businesses. When clients are satisfied, it means I’ve built a strong relationship and delivered results. But the real reward for me is the autonomy that comes with owning my own business. I’m in complete control of my career and the direction I take. That freedom is incredibly empowering.
Q: What skills from your corporate career have been most valuable in your consulting business?
Michael Rustom: All of them have been incredibly valuable. My experience in client relations, strategic planning, and sales leadership has helped me navigate the consulting world. The IT knowledge I gained has also been key to the success of my firm. I’m grateful for everything I learned during my time in the corporate world.
Q: For readers thinking about leaving the corporate world to start their own business, what do you enjoy most about being your own boss?
Michael Rustom: It’s not quite the carefree lifestyle that some imagine. There’s a lot of hard work that goes into building a business, especially in the early stages. But the ability to make my own decisions and shape the business according to my vision and values is extremely rewarding. It’s worth the effort, and it feels good to know that I’m building something of my own.
Q: What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a business owner and how did you overcome it?
Michael Rustom Toronto The biggest challenge was managing all the responsibilities on my own, especially at the beginning. As a corporate executive, you have teams and resources supporting you. As a business owner, it’s just you. I had to learn to manage finances, marketing, and operations all by myself. But once I embraced the process of learning and took ownership of every aspect of the business, it became much easier.
Q: What advice would you give to someone thinking about starting their own business?
Michael Rustom: Understand that the transition won’t be easy, but it will be rewarding. You’ll need to wear many hats, and you have to be prepared to handle all aspects of the business, not just the ones you’re familiar with. Embrace the learning curve, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.
Q: What’s the best $100 you’ve spent recently?
Michael Rustom: I recently spent $100 on a LEGO set commemorating Ayrton Senna and his McLaren F1 car. Building it with my daughter was an incredibly rewarding experience and a great way to spend quality time together.
Q: What’s one business tip you would give to others?
Michael Rustom: Always think from the perspective of your team, especially the sales professionals. When developing policies and programs, consider how they will affect the people who are actually implementing them. If you can attract and retain top talent, your business will thrive.
Q: What software helps you stay productive?
Michael Rustom: Excel is invaluable for analyzing data and presenting business value. If the numbers make sense in a spreadsheet, that’s usually a good indicator that the project is on solid ground.
Q: Do you have a favorite book or podcast?
Michael Rustom: An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth by Chris Hadfield is a favorite. His insights into leadership, life lessons, and his time as an astronaut are both practical and inspiring.
Q: What’s a movie or series you’ve enjoyed recently?
Michael Rustom: I watched Drops of God, a series about a competition to inherit a wine collection. It’s beautifully shot, set in Japan, Italy, and France, and the story is filled with suspense. Even if you’re not a wine expert, it’s an engaging watch.
Michael Rustom’s journey from corporate executive to successful entrepreneur demonstrates the value of autonomy, hard work, and a commitment to learning. His diverse experiences continue to shape his consulting business, and his ability to blend business, technology, and leadership is a testament to the power of a well-rounded perspective in today’s fast-paced world.