This article is part of our Beyond the Family Business series.
Hosted by Luke Hansen-MacDonald, a second-generation family business leader, “Beyond the Family Business” is one of the most thoughtful and engaging podcasts about family enterprise in Canada. In the podcast, which Canadian Family Offices shares with readers every two weeks, Luke goes beyond the headlines with other leaders in family businesses and family offices to explore lessons they have learned and their successes and challenges.
In this episode of “Beyond the Family Business,” Luke sits down with Pierre Somers, founder of the family investment firm the Walter Group, headquartered in Montreal. Somers talks about his family’s roots in Germany, how he has navigated bringing his children into the family business fold, and his seeming inability to retire.
In his conversation with Luke, Somers shares:
- The emotional toll of selling his father’s business and how the family ensured they did so on their own terms.
- The evolution of the Walter Group and where it stands today.
- How Somers was able to attract top-tier talent for Walter Capital Partners, the private equity division of the Walter Group.
- The separation of the Somers family office from the investment firm and how that has sparked a new era of growth.
Previous episodes of “Beyond the Family Business” on Canadian Family Offices feature K.C. Daya, Jeffrey McCain , Ian Wilson and Derrick Hunter.
For the full transcript of Luke’s conversation with Pierre Somers, click here.
Disclaimer: This podcast is sponsored by BMO Private Wealth. The information provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or professional advice. The views expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any organization or company. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor or professional before making any investment decisions.
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