Brian O'Kane

CEO Klarke Investments

Brian O’Kane is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the O’Kane Group of Companies while serving as CEO of Klarke Investments. Under his stewardship, the company manages a diverse portfolio of real estate properties, including multi-family residential units, office complexes, commercial and industrial spaces, and strip malls. With a robust background of over twenty years in property management, he possesses deep expertise in cost accounting, financial modeling, and finance, which he leverages to drive his company's success.

In 2002, Brian began a series of entrepreneurial ventures by establishing numerous property development and general contracting businesses, significantly influencing Calgary’s property market. These businesses have developed and managed various real estate projects and delivered extensive contracting services to commercial clients and nonprofits. Notably, his leadership as President of Vectus from 2011 to 2015 marked a period of substantial growth and innovation in property redevelopment and new construction projects.

Before his foray into real estate, Brian was at the helm of an oilfield equipment manufacturing firm, leading a comprehensive turnaround strategy. This strategy dramatically increased the company’s operations, expanding its scale sevenfold in five years and culminating in its acquisition by a more significant American competitor in 2001.

Professional Career

Brian O’Kane's career, which has spanned various leadership roles since 1989, showcases his versatile management skills and entrepreneurial spirit in different sectors.

CEO, Capitan Overlay Technologies

At Capitan Overlay Technologies, Brian’s five-year tenure as CEO was marked by transformative growth, leading to Triton’s acquisition. Post-acquisition, he remained a management consultant to ensure a seamless transition.

Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Flotek Industries

From 1993 to 1996, Brian served as the Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Flotek Industries. There, he was instrumental in driving the company’s international expansion and the development of groundbreaking Petrovalve technology, enhancing operational efficiencies in the oil and gas sector.

Controller, Cassola Management

Brian also managed financial operations as Controller for Cassola Management, overseeing the fiscal responsibilities of a conglomerate with interests in construction, property development, and manufacturing.

State Finance Manager, Salmat Group

Earlier in his career, he was the State Finance Manager for Salmat Group, managing the financial operations of the company’s New South Wales division in Australia.

Before his stint at Salmat, Brian was a Cost Accountant at Lilypak/Polarcup, focused on the disposable packaging industry. He owned and managed Metalmesh Trading, specializing in swimming pool filtration equipment.

From Canada to Australia and Back Home

Originally from Toronto, Canada, Brian relocated to Sydney, Australia, at seven and spent his formative years in the suburb of St. Ives. He moved back to Canada in 1991, settling in Vancouver, then Edmonton, and finally establishing his roots in Calgary in 1996.

Education

Brian earned his Bachelor of Economics from Macquarie University in Australia in 1985. He later achieved his CPA in 1990 and Canadian CGA accounting designation in 1995.

Past Time

An avid enthusiast of outdoor adventures, Brian enjoys rally racing, skiing, cycling, sailing, and boating. These activities reflect his passion for the outdoors and adventure, aligning perfectly with Calgary's geographic advantages near the Canadian Rockies.

Brian is also a devoted pet owner. He is frequently seen at local dog parks with Benny, his 13-year-old dachshund rescue. His household includes two cats, emphasizing his commitment to animal welfare and pet-friendly living spaces.

Family is a central pillar in Brian's life; he cherishes the time spent with his grandchildren, who add joy and vibrancy. Brian is deeply committed to his Calgary community, actively supporting initiatives focused on mental health and animal welfare, which further illustrates his dedication to societal betterment and community involvement.