"I just think it's such a big challenge," Yates said. But if it's done right and the team gets rallied, "the payoff is tremendous."

Indeed, since he became the president and CEO at Antarctica Systems Inc. in June 2002, Yates and his colleagues have pursued a vision that saw the software firm change its focus.

"It's been an exciting ride," Yates said. "It's been a big challenge and now we're starting to see the results of that."

The company's software, Visual Net, was positioned as a search and discovery tool in the area of knowledge and content management.

However, Yates and his team felt that the visualization software could be used to address a need in business intelligence. The repositioning took place in late 2003. Now, Visual Net helps companies sift through reams of data to improve decision-making.

The software is aimed at day-to-day business users and executives, and presents information in a manner akin to a map. A user can drill down for more detailed information.

Antarctica now has about 25 customers, mostly in the U.S. Yates wouldn't provide figures, but said the company has enjoyed triple-digit revenue growth this fiscal year.

Since Yates came on board, the employee base has grown from seven to 27. Earlier this year, the company raised third-round funding worth $4.2 million.

Before joining Antarctica, Yates was the senior vice-president of worldwide sales and marketing at Delano Technology Corp. He was also a senior management consultant at BearingPoint, Accenture and Bain & Co.

Profession you would like to try: Professional golfer

Where do you feel most comfortable? At home with my kids

Favourite movie: Usual Suspects

Currently reading: Tropic of Night

Toughest decision: Letting people go that I respect

Car: BMW M5

Would most like to meet: Winston Churchill

Where Born: Toronto

Last CD bought: Echoes, by Pink Floyd

Education: B.Comm (honours, with distinction), Queen's University

What's left to do: Continue to build a great company