Guelph Grad Q&A: Jeremy Wright

From Business Grad to Business Owner

Jeremy Wright graduated from the University of Guelph’s Economics, Management and Finance program in 2016. Jeremy first became interested in the program as a way to understand the background of business (primarily economics) and how micro & macroeconomics can impact small businesses.  

His time at the University would prove to be crucial to both his career and life by providing him with a foundation for understanding business and finding a lifelong friendships and business partners.

Today Jeremy now co-owner of ZinCo Canada, a green roof supplier that designs, consults and builds complex roof spaces across Canada. A company he runs alongside his business partner and fellow U of G alumni, Jordan Hofstra. In fact, the pair met while playing rugby and were both a part of the 2016 Gryphon Rugby team that won the OUA championship title. 

Continue reading to learn more about Jeremy, his academic journey and why he thinks ivy league schools are overrated. 

Interview with Jeremy Wright 

Tell us about yourself and why you chose to study Economics, Management and Finance at the University of Guelph?

I am currently a co-owner of ZinCo Canada, a green roof supplier that designs, consults and builds complex roof spaces across Canada. I manage alongside my partner Jordan Hofstra, the day-to-day operations of our business, but mainly I deal with commercial & large-scale project management. My initial interest in Economics, Management & Finance was to understand the background of business (primarily economics) and how both micro & macro economic factors affect small business. I had an interest in environmental economics, primarily the carbon pricing, and green roofs amazed me. My undergrad at U of G was crucial to my career and my life, providing me a foundation for understanding business and creating lifelong friendships and business partners.   

What did you like most about your program? Is there anything in particular about the courses or professors that stands out to you?

My favourite part of the program was the ability to choose courses that interested me most, and be taught by professors that had real world experience - this provided much more than a typical academic experience. The University of Guelph's MEF program taught me basic tools and understanding of business that I apply nearly every day in our work. The school was also extremely supportive of entrepreneurs, and advocated that you do not need to go to an ivy league school to be in business.  

Did you do co-op? If yes, tell us a bit about your co-op job and your experience.

No co-op, but my program allowed me to hold various internships at multiple firms. 

Where are you currently working and what is your role?

I am managing partner and Commercial Projects Manager at ZinCo Canada Inc. 

How did your degree and time at the University of Guelph help get you to where you are today? How do the skills and education you gained help with your current work?

My time at Guelph and in my program taught me to look at economics at both a macro and micro level, and the basic understanding of accounting even though I am not an accountant. These base courses were crucial in inspiring me to work for myself. The group work that was consistent in my studies taught me the importance of a strong team, and that success is only achievable with collaboration. It is not an easy program; it will test you and build character - but the school and professors are invested in your success.  

What advice would you give someone considering Economics, Management and Finance or applying to the University of Guelph?

My advice for anyone considering Economics, Management and Finance at Guelph is to just do it. You do not need to go to an ivy league business school to achieve higher achievements in business; it is a better position to be considered an underdog and pave your own path forward. U of G allows you the flexibility to focus on topics that interest you, and provides a multi-disciplinary approach to business academics.  Guelph is an amazing place to call home, the culture is perfect, and the staff/students are humble, hardworking and bright. It is the perfect program and school to allow your creativity to bloom. 

Bonus Questions

Where was your favourite place to eat on campus and what was your go-to food order?

Creelman Hall or the Bullring. 

In your opinion where is the best place to study on campus?

3rd Floor Science Commons in the Library. 

What was your pre-exam ritual?

Listen to A Day In the Life by the Beatles and smash a coffee.  

What are your top 5 favourite things about U of G?

1. The culture  
2. Friday night home rugby games  
3. Learning from people from across the country and the world  
4. Downtown Guelph
5. Having the feel of the large school but with small classes