Olivier Kretz outlines the governance of his family-run Agency, co-managed by his wife Sandrine and their four sons. Following significant growth in agents, Alexandre was appointed to oversee operations, ensuring sustainable development while preserving core values. The family encourages external experience for their sons, resulting in a notable revenue increase. Despite challenges, including a son’s departure, Olivier is optimistic about fostering collaboration and a successful succession plan to maintain the Agency’s familial spirit.
Understanding the Governance of the Agency
Olivier Kretz explains the structure of the Agency’s governance, which comprises his wife Sandrine and their four sons: Martin, Valentin, Louis, and Raphaël. Together, they form a team of co-managers responsible for shaping the Agency’s strategic direction. The implementation of this strategy is entrusted to Alexandre, the general director, who brings valuable experience from his previous ventures in finance and advertising startups.
The Evolution of Leadership within the Agency
Appointed in March, Alexandre’s arrival was crucial as the Agency’s network of independent agents expanded dramatically from just 10 to 80 agents since the first season of the series aired in 2020. This growth necessitated a more structured approach to ensure the Agency’s sustainable development. Alexandre’s organizational skills complement the family dynamics, allowing the Agency to maintain its core values while scaling operations effectively.
Since its inception in 2008, Olivier has harbored a vision of establishing a family business. His entrepreneurial spirit, inspired by his family’s legacy in the corsetry industry, motivated him to create his first company in 1999. Although that venture did not succeed, it laid the groundwork for his current endeavors.
When it comes to involving their sons in the Agency, Olivier and Sandrine did not pressure them. Instead, they encouraged their children to gain external experience before joining the family business. This strategy proved beneficial, as the Agency reported a 20% increase in revenue in 2023 compared to the previous year, highlighting the sons’ valuable contributions in various areas such as marketing, engineering, and customer service.
Olivier acknowledges the challenges that arise when family members work together, particularly with the recent developments in the Agency. The departure of Louis to Barcelona created a gap, leaving Martin and Valentin to manage an increased workload while still adjusting to their new roles. The transition from a family-run operation to a growing company requires careful navigation, particularly when integrating new hires.
Despite the challenges, Olivier remains optimistic about the future, focusing on fostering a collaborative environment among his sons. He expresses the hope that their collective efforts will lead to a successful succession plan, enabling the next generation to take over the Agency while preserving its familial essence.
In his writings, Olivier emphasizes the importance of unity among his sons and the desire for them to lead the Agency together. He and Sandrine are committed to a gradual transition, ensuring that their passion for their work continues to resonate within the family and the business.