SESSION SUMMARY: Join us for a 1-hour talk by Helen Antoniou, biographer and daughter-in-law of Eric Molson, for an insider’s view from her book Back to Beer…and Hockey: The Story of Eric Molson on how Eric saved the family-controlled business, managed family and boardroom dynamics, and succeeded the transfer to the 7th generation.
BOOK SYNOPSIS: To most Canadians, the Molson name is part of the very fabric of Canada. Since 1786, when John Molson founded his first brewery in Montreal, it has become synonymous with beer, hockey, and philanthropy. Few realize, however, how close the family came in recent years to losing control of the enterprise. Back to Beer… and Hockey offers intimate details of the life and work of Eric Molson, who not only saved the company, but positioned it to thrive as a global brewery into the twenty-first century.
With unprecedented access to the Molson family, Helen Antoniou traces Eric Molson’s evolution from a young brewmaster captivated by the chemistry of beer-making to chairman of Molson. Quiet by nature, he had to confront big egos, navigate complex boardroom politics, and even battle a disruptive cousin who tried to push him out of the way. Antoniou’s carefully researched account details how the introverted Eric overcame his aversion to conflict to take the company from a failing conglomerate back to its core business of beer, eventually turning it into one of the world’s leading brewers. Today, he has passed the torch to his sons, the seventh generation, but his steadfast vision prevails.
ABOUT OUR SPEAKER: Helen Antoniou is an executive coach for corporate leaders and family business owners, as well as a volunteer board member in the areas of health, education, and the arts. She has practised corporate law and management consulting, and holds degrees from McGill University, Université de Paris II, Assas, and Harvard University. She is Eric Molson’s daughter-in-law.
QUESTIONS: events@rotman.utoronto.ca, Daniel Ellul, (416) 978-6119