Traci O’Bryan
ARCTURIS
Website: arcturis.com
Industry: architectural design professional services
Education: BA in interior architecture, Kansas State University
Family: Married to Mark O’Bryan with two children – Hayden, 18, and Tessa, 16 – plus our dog, Spike
What is your mission?
To design a better world.
What was your first job?
Pumping gas and writing car wash tickets at my father’s car wash.
What was your worst job?
Professional cleaning company cleaning up after fires, vandalism and other catastrophes.
What was the smartest thing your company did in the past year?
We promoted and recognized the next generation of leadership for Arcturis. We have a group of incredibly talented professionals who are exhibiting firm and client project leadership every day. We knew it was important to recognize their contributions and also make sure they are a part of framing the future.
Who is your industry role model?
Gensler is a firm that I admire. They share many of Arcturis’ values: collaboration, putting the client first and design that transcends. On a rare occasion we have competed with them on some small projects – someday I expect we will win a large corporate project over them!
How do you try to differentiate your business from others in your industry?
First and foremost, our main goal is to develop a long-term relationship with the client and exceed their expectations. We want to fully understand their business, their objectives and their operations. We then provide design solutions that can transform their business and generate incredible results.
What best advice would you share with new entrepreneurs?
I would tell any entrepreneur to always have a mentor or a board of advisers. Change them over time as you and your business are changing. It is also really important to have some diversity in thought, business and expertise to help you gain new perspectives. It challenges you and your understanding in areas which may not be your strength. These people will be your support system when times are tough.
What’s your favorite place in St. Louis?
I think we are so lucky to have Forest Park in our community! I specifically love the walking trails and waterways throughout the park; they help rejuvenate me and let me forget the pressures of the business world for a moment. I also love and highly value the great institutions we have within the park. My two children were practically raised in them, rotating a visit each week when they were young since we lived only a mile away from the park.
What book is on your nightstand?
“The Soft Edge” by Rich Karlgaard is business reading and came highly recommended from my industry roundtable. I am a “Game of Thrones” fan and am getting ready to read the books for the second time as soon as I finish my current read.
What has made you successful in your industry and in St. Louis?
In the architectural design industry, it is crucial to put the right talent in place and then get out of the way as they do what they do best. Perseverance is so important in our industry because there are many highs and lows economy-wise.
What do you do in your free time?
I love to read and always have two books going: one for business/professional growth and one for pure pleasure. I enjoy spending time outdoors and cooking home-style meals for my family.
Submitted 8 years 145 days ago