Northwood Staff Profile: Doug Barker

What do you do at Northwood?

A large part of my role is helping people understand what a family office is, how it works, and whether Northwood would be the right fit for their needs. Having previously worked at a single-family office, I’ve seen firsthand how different structures can make sense depending on a family’s complexity, goals, and stage.

As part of Northwood’s Growth team, my role is also to build and strengthen relationships across the wealth ecosystem. I focus on Centers of Influence (COIs) such as lawyers, accountants, M&A professionals, and other trusted advisors who support ultra-high-net-worth families.

I also support our Next Gen initiatives. Being early in my own career, I relate to the uncertainty many graduates feel when they’re figuring out what they want to pursue. I enjoy helping members of the next generation explore different career paths and options. This often results in connecting the next generation in my network with people and opportunities that give them real exposure to industries and roles they may be considering.

What has surprised you the most since you've been at Northwood?

What’s surprised me most is how much of the work goes beyond technical expertise, and how deeply involved we are in the human side of wealth.

Investments, accounting, planning, and legal structure are all critical, but what really stands out is how often the “hard” decisions families face are shaped by family dynamics, communication, and emotion.

Northwood brings a level of experience that has been built on working with many different families over the years. The team actively shares those learnings so we can support families with perspective and context.

It’s a true team environment, and I’ve been impressed by the collaborative work environment, and how much the team enjoys the work. It’s interesting, challenging, and rewarding.

What are your favorite things to do outside of work?

Outside of work, I spend a lot of time running, travelling, and staying active.

I also love giving back through an initiative I co-founded called, Run to Give Toronto. It’s an annual charity run built around community connection. We bring people together in a positive way while raising funds and awareness for local causes.

Run to Give Toronto just wrapped its sixth year, and over time we’ve supported initiatives focused on mental health, pediatric oncology, strengthening local communities and small businesses, outdoor education & closing the digital divide for vulnerable youth. We just passed over 1,000 participants and donors and are looking forward to this year's run.

What is one of your favorite travel destinations? Any recommendations when there?

One of my favourite travel destinations is Milos, Greece. It’s an amazing mix of local laid-back island energy, crystal-clear water, and some of the most unique beaches I’ve ever seen.

My #1 recommendation: rent an ATV and spend the day beach hopping. It’s the best way to explore the island and find hidden spots. And if you want an authentic meal, grab lunch at “O Hamos!”.

If anyone’s planning a trip, reach out, I’d be happy to share a full Milos guide.

What is the biggest risk you’ve ever taken?

I graduated at the tail end of COVID and instead of starting full-time work right away, I spent the summer bartending in Muskoka. On my first shift, I was asked to help with a private party - I said yes, and at that same event I booked three more parties through word of mouth.

Seeing the demand for people to reconnect after COVID, a friend and I started a private bartending company and ended up being booked almost every weekend that summer. One of those parties actually led me to getting hired at the single-family office I was at before Northwood.  

It was a non-traditional path, but I’m grateful I took the chance.