Paul Kaplan, Founder and Strategic Partner, Odevo
Why did you decide to join Odevo with the company you founded?
Despite more lucrative offers on the table, my partner and I chose Odevo because of our personal connection. I loved the people, it wasn’t just business but a chance to be part of something special.
At Odevo, we don’t believe in suits and closed doors — we believe in partnerships, openness, and being there for each other every step of the way. That fits me very well, I’m an operator, not an ivory-tower CEO. What you see is what you get.
Leadership clearly plays a huge role for you. What is the philosophy behind it?
I don’t believe in building companies top-down. I believe you are pushed up. Train people in your team, empower them, and they’ll help you succeed. Every success is credited to the team.
That also goes for the whole of Odevo. Our work starts and ends in the operational teams, the people that customers interact with, who help them on a daily basis.
Today, you are the CEO of Odevo US. How would you describe the spirit of Odevo US?
Perhaps we’re a bit like the cowboys of the Odevo group globally. We’re energetic, fast-growing, and full of energy.
When I first took the role as US CEO, I joked to Odevo Group’s CEO, Daniel Larsson, that I’d send him a block of Swiss cheese, because there were a lot of holes to fill. My first year was about finding and patching those holes, building the team, deciding on ways of working, and culture.
We brought five companies, previously operating independently, into one cohesive platform. We introduced shared functions that benefit all businesses. When I talk about “building an organisation,” I mean creating something that is bigger than the sum of its parts: where everyone supports each other, shares knowledge, and grows together. That’s the value we’re creating. A stronger, more connected, and future-ready Odevo US.
Technology is a big part of Odevo’s global strategy. How does it play into the US story?
I’m probably the worst tech person in the company. But I know tech is vital for being great property managers. Technology helps our property managers free up time to engage more with homeowners and add real value.
Odevo’s software development teams and proprietary platforms have been critical in supporting the US expansion, allowing for smoother operations while preserving the hands-on, relationship-driven service that homeowners expect.
What’s your closing argument when you are speaking to people or companies thinking of joining Odevo?
We’re the big little company. We have the sophistication and resources of a major player, but the heart, humility, and closeness of a small company. If that resonates with you, and you want to grow together, you’ll feel right at home here. That is why I’m still here, as engaged as ever.
