Podcast: Reclaiming the family business
In this episode of the Help to Grow: Management Podcast, Financial Times journalist Jonathan Moules talks to Karsten Smet about the transition from the corporate world to running a family-owned business, successfully integrating a tech company, and building a family-friendly culture.
Karsten Smet is the CEO of ACI Group, a Berkshire-based logistics business. Prior to joining ACI Group, Karsten worked in strategy and operations for Microsoft, Rackspace, and Barclaycard.
The interesting thing about ACI Group is that it was actually founded by Karsten’s father in the late 80s. His father successfully ran the business for 30 years before selling it to a Swiss buyer in 2018. Just two years later, Karsten and the family decided to buy back the business when the new owner ran out of money.
In just three years, Karsten has overhauled the business, brought it into the modern age, and massively increased turnover.
In this episode of the Help to Grow: Management Podcast, Financial Times journalist Jonathan Moules talks to Karsten about the transition from the corporate world to running a family-owned business, successfully integrating a tech company, and building a family-friendly culture.
Help to Grow: Management Podcast
Hosted by Financial Times journalist Jonathan Moules, the Help to Grow: Management Podcast is a unique resource for SME leaders navigating the world of business. Through discussions with SME leaders, listeners will hear real stories from people about how they have harnessed the ups and downs of running a business to thrive. The Help to Grow: Management Podcast isn’t about business ideals, it’s about authentic stories and lessons.