Abstract

The case discusses some of the unique governance and control practices of Sweden based Bonnier Group. The Group was founded over two centuries ago and has been recognized globally as a well-managed family-owned business. Dynamic leaders in each generation, strong culture and values helped the family stay together while maintaining their control over the Group's businesses. As the Bonnier family moved into the sixth generation, the Group had adopted a more professional and transparent approach to governance. The case examines the growth of Bonnier Group over the decades and highlights the best practices in managing a family-owned business.

Learning Objectives

The case is structured to achieve the following Learning Objectives:

• Study the best practices in managing a family-owned business
• Evaluate the importance of culture, values and leadership in managing a family owned business successfully
• Examine the importance of good governance and control in bringing transparency to the operations of family owned business.

Keywords

Bonnier Group, Family-Owned Business, Governance Structure, Control System, Culture, Values, Transparency, Family Business as a Heirloom, Bonnier Family Foundation, Ownership Philosophy, Professional Management, Bonnier Group Family Tree, Organization Structure, Family-Owned Businesses in Europe