Brad Hinkelman: CEO of Casacol
Brad Hinkelman is a Canadian entrepreneur resident in Colombia since 2013. He completed his undergraduate studies at Simon Fraser University in British Columbia, where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration with a focus on marketing, finance, and economics. Following this, Hinkelman pursued further education in finance through executive continuing education at New York University from 2012 to 2013.
Career
Brad Hinkelman began his professional career in technology and software sales from 2003–2013. During his tenure at IBM and Oracle he participated in the company’s high-performance and young leaders programs, which were designed to groom future executives. He worked in the company’s banking, insurance, and telecommunications divisions, gaining valuable experience in managing complex and high-value transactions.
In 2007, Hinkelman joined Oracle Corporation as a Region Manager. He managed the company’s technology and financial relationships with some of the largest clients in Canada and the United States, focusing on the telecommunications, banking, and insurance sectors. His role involved rebuilding the finance and insurance sector post-financial crisis. Hinkelman oversaw significant sales volumes and built high-value business relationships with C-level client executives during his time at Oracle, a position he held until 2014.
Casacol
In 2008, Hinkelman started making investments in Medellín, Colombia, identifying significant potential in the city’s emerging real estate market. Initially, he entered the market as an investor. Recognizing a gap in high-quality investment and legal advice for foreigners, he founded Casacol in 2012 to fill this void. Casacol quickly grew under Hinkelman’s leadership, becoming one of Medellín’s largest real estate investment and property management firms and the largest hotel operator in the City of “eternal spring”.
As CEO of Casacol, Hinkelman has overseen the development of numerous ground-up real estate projects, adding more than 500 four and five-star hotel rooms to the Medellín hospitality market. His efforts have brought over $100 million USD in foreign investment into Medellín’s real estate market. Casacol’s portfolio includes a mix of furnished apartments, boutique hotels, and large-scale residential developments. The company is known for its comprehensive suite of services, including property management, legal, and accounting services tailored to foreign investors.
Impact and Contributions
Brad Hinkelman has played a pivotal role in transforming Medellín into a top destination for both tourists and investors. His company has contributed significantly to the modernization and growth of the city’s real estate sector. Casacol manages over 500 properties totaling almost 1000 beds and supports nearly 300 full-time jobs, with many more indirectly.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Hinkelman founded the Casacol Foundation with the motto “we give where we live,” focusing on supporting local communities and vulnerable neighborhoods. The foundation was instrumental in providing aid and support during the challenging pandemic period.
Challenges and Growth
Hinkelman has navigated various challenges in the Colombian real estate market, including dealing with local regulations and ensuring sustainable development. Despite these obstacles, he has maintained a focus on responsible growth and community benefit. Under his leadership, Casacol has not only survived but thrived post-COVID, reflecting the resilience and adaptability of the company.
Personal Life
Brad Hinkelman is fluent in English, Spanish, and conversational Russian, a testament to his international outlook and commitment to his adopted home in Medellín. He continues to live in Medellín, contributing to the city’s development both professionally and through his philanthropic efforts.
Hobbies and Interests
In addition to his professional work, Hinkelman is known for his interest in technology and digital marketing, which have played a crucial role in his business strategies. He enjoys sharing his knowledge and experience through speaking engagements, often discussing topics related to entrepreneurship, real estate investment, and the growth of Medellín as a vibrant urban center.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Brad Hinkelman plans to continue expanding Casacol’s development projects and enhancing the company’s property management services. He is particularly interested in integrating more sustainable building practices and technologies to provide eco-friendly living options for clients. His vision for the future includes further contributing to Medellín’s reputation as a leading destination for real estate investment and tourism.
Brad Hinkelman’s career spans over two decades of experience in technology and real estate sectors. His journey from a technology executive in North America to a leading figure in Medellín’s real estate market highlights his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to responsible economic development. Through Casacol, Hinkelman has significantly impacted Medellín’s real estate landscape, attracting substantial foreign investment and supporting local communities. His ongoing efforts continue to shape the future of the city, making him a notable figure in the industry.
Learn more about Brad Hinkelman’s life and career on cloutrep.
