3 - Building Relationships Over Transactions: Ensuring Family Values in a Modern Business
Navigating Family Business Leadership in the Packaging Industry: Insights from Marc Gaelen of O.Berk
In this episode of Growing Up B2B, host Ed Delia sits down with Marc Gaelen, President and CEO of O.Berk, a leading provider of custom and stock packaging solutions. Marc, a fourth-generation leader at O.Berk, shares his journey of entering the family business, the challenges of balancing family relationships with professional responsibilities, and how innovation plays a key role in maintaining O.Berk's industry leadership. This episode offers valuable lessons for anyone navigating the complexities of a family-run business, especially in the packaging sector, and provides actionable insights on adapting to market demands and embracing change.
The Role of Leadership and Innovation in Family Business Success
Marc’s entry into the family business began with a shift from his original path in law to working alongside his father at O.Berk. After years of developing legal expertise, Marc realized that his true calling was within the family business. Joining O.Berk with a fresh perspective, Marc had to first prove himself to the long-time employees and navigate the unique family dynamics that come with leadership in a family-run company. His experience underscores the importance of gaining external experience before stepping into leadership, as it helps bring new perspectives and skills to the business while respecting the family’s established values.
Marc also emphasizes the importance of innovation and staying competitive in a rapidly evolving industry. Since taking the helm, Marc has led O.Berk through several technological advancements, including updating processes, investing in sustainable practices, and exploring new markets. His commitment to improving O.Berk’s operations through innovation has allowed the company to grow and adapt, keeping it at the forefront of the packaging industry. By integrating new technologies, O.Berk has been able to meet customer demands for more eco-friendly packaging solutions while ensuring long-term sustainability.
At O.Berk, Marc has also embraced the idea of decentralizing responsibilities and empowering employees. This approach helps foster a more resilient and adaptable organization, positioning the company for continued growth. Marc’s leadership philosophy centers on the importance of empowering team members to take ownership of their roles, ensuring that the company remains agile and ready to face future challenges. This, coupled with a strong focus on family values, ensures that O.Berk is not only successful but also stays true to the principles that have defined the company for generations.
About Marc Gaelen
Marc Gaelen is the President and CEO of O.Berk, a family-owned business specializing in custom and stock packaging solutions. As a fourth-generation leader, Marc has been instrumental in driving innovation and leading the company through industry changes. His leadership style emphasizes collaboration, family values, and the importance of empowering employees to take ownership of their roles. Marc is committed to maintaining O.Berk’s reputation for quality while ensuring it remains competitive in an ever-evolving market.
About O.Berk
O.Berk is a family-owned business that offers a range of custom and stock packaging solutions. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, O.Berk has become a leader in the packaging industry. The company’s commitment to embracing new technologies and staying ahead of market trends has enabled it to serve clients across a wide range of industries, providing both environmentally friendly and efficient packaging solutions.
Links Mentioned in This Episode
Key Episode Highlights
Marc’s transition from law to leadership in the family business
The importance of external experience and fresh perspectives in family business leadership
Embracing innovation to remain competitive in the packaging industry
The role of decentralizing responsibilities and empowering employees for business success
How family values and customer satisfaction drive long-term success
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