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 every episode, Luke goes beyond the headlines with other leaders in family businesses and family offices to explore lessons they have learned, their successes and their challenges.
In this episode, Luke sits down with Olivier Desmarais, chairman of Power Sustainable and senior vice-president of Power Corporation. A third-generation member of one of Canada’s most prominent business families and grandson of former prime minister Jean Chrétien, Desmarais discusses his journey into the family business and how he helped build an investment firm focused on delivering both competitive financial returns and positive environmental outcomes.
In this conversation with Luke, Olivier shares:
- How his early experiences in renewable energy helped shape Power Sustainable’s investment philosophy, and why he believes climate impact doesn’t have to come at the expense of profitability.
- The opportunities behind Power Sustainable’s $10-billion commitment to Canadian infrastructure and the role private capital can play in strengthening the country’s economy.
- Why family business leaders should become more involved in civic and political life, even if they have no intention of running for office.
- His advice for getting involved in public service, including why aspiring leaders should learn to follow before they lead.
- Why maintaining a healthy society for future generations matters just as much as preserving the family fortune, and how his analogy of the family tree and the soil has shaped his thinking about legacy.
Previous episodes of “Beyond the Family Business” on Canadian Family Offices feature Geoff Smith, K.C. Daya, Jeffrey McCain, Ian Wilson, Derrick Hunter, Pierre Somers, Ben Hertzman, Lee Bragg and Danielle Saputo.
For the full transcript of Luke’s conversation with Olivier, 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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