Brian O'Kane

Brian O'Kane

CEO of Klarke Investments

Calgary Alberta, Canada
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Summary

Brian O’Kane excels as the President and CEO of the O’Kane Group of Companies. He also leads Klarke Investments, overseeing a diverse real estate portfolio that includes multifamily residential units, commercial properties, office spaces, and industrial sites. With over twenty years of experience, his financial modeling, cost accounting, and strategic asset management expertise have driven Calgary's real estate landscape forward.

Brian launched his career in real estate development and general contracting in 2002, founding several influential firms that have reshaped Calgary’s skyline. His companies specialize in revitalizing existing buildings and developing new properties, contributing significantly to urban renewal and expansion. From 2011 to 2015, as President of Vectus, he directed multiple landmark projects that added substantial value to the local real estate market.

Before entering real estate, Brian was the CEO of an oilfield equipment manufacturing company. He led a dramatic expansion there, increasing the company’s scale sevenfold in five years. This growth phase culminated in the company's successful sale to a major American industry player in 2001.

Key Career Achievements

  • CEO, Capitan Overlay Technologies: Brian spearheaded growth initiatives that significantly increased the company's value, leading to its acquisition by Triton.
  • Vice President and CFO, Flotek Industries: During his tenure, he oversaw international expansion and led the development of Petrovalve technology, which significantly improved efficiencies in oil and gas production.
  • Controller, Cassola Management: Here, Brian managed financial operations across a broad range of industries, including construction, property development, and manufacturing.
  • State Finance Manager, Salmat Group: He was responsible for the financial leadership of the company’s operations in New South Wales, optimizing financial performance across the board.

Background and Education

Originally from Toronto, Canada, Brian moved to Sydney, Australia, when he was seven years old and was raised in the suburb of St. Ives. He returned to Canada in 1991, living in Vancouver and Edmonton before settling in Calgary in 1996. He graduated with a Bachelor of Economics from Macquarie University and later achieved professional designations as a CPA and CGA.

An avid lover of the outdoors, Brian is passionate about rally racing, skiing, cycling, sailing, and boating. These activities cater to his adventurous nature and allow him to connect deeply with the environment, a testament to Calgary’s proximity to the scenic Canadian Rockies.

Brian is deeply committed to his family, cherishing the time spent with his grandchildren. He actively participates in local initiatives focused on mental health and animal welfare, advocating for pet-friendly living environments based on his experiences with his beloved rescue dachshund, Benny, and two cats. His commitment extends beyond his personal life into his professional endeavors, where he integrates community and environmental consciousness into his business practices.

Experience

1993 Jan - 1996 Dec
Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Flotek Industries / Calgary Alberta, Canada
CEO
Klarke Investments / Calgary Alberta, Canada

Education

Macquarie University
Bachelor of Economics / Economics