Episode 23: Intentional Succession Planning with Roberta MacGillivray

How Intentional Succession Planning Built a Stronger Business

What does it look like when succession planning goes right? In this episode, Roberta MacGillivray shares the story of how her family business, BGE Indoor Air Quality Solutions, transitioned leadership across generations—with intention, clarity, and heart. From kitchen-table conversations to hiring new executives, Roberta walks us through the mindset and mechanics of intentional succession planning. Hear how she built credibility beyond her last name, developed leadership through challenge, and now cultivates a team that thrives on collaboration and constructive conflict.

Show Notes:

1:10 The origins of BGE and quality air filtration in Western  Canada

6:25 At the kitchen table with an entrepreneurial parent

10:10 Building a great successor for a family business

19:20 Intentional succession planning 

24:25 Tough conversations for the greatest benefit to the business

30:35 Culture and how to find fantastic leaders

40:20 At the kitchen table as an entrepreneurial parent

Episode Resources & Links

BGE Indoor Air Quality Solutions

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