Strategy & Leadership
- Successful succession requires more than planning — it demands emotional competence, humility, and coaching.
- The Savoir-Relier methodology fosters trust, dialogue, and deep human connection across generations.
- Family business leaders must actively balance tradition with innovation to ensure continuity without stagnation.
Transferring a family business is never just a legal or financial process — it’s a human one. Régis Mathieu, who transformed a legacy chandelier company into a global luxury brand, is now navigating the delicate succession process with his daughter Inès. Through a case developed by HEC Paris professors, executives can reflect on how to lead with empathy, coach successors with courage, and reinvent tradition — while keeping excellence at the core.
What the Mathieu Case Reveals About Relational Leadership
The Mathieu Lustrerie business case explores the complex challenges of leading and transferring a family business operating in a niche luxury market. Founded in 1948, the company reached new heights under Régis Mathieu, who transformed a traditional chandelier firm into a creative and entrepreneurial powerhouse. Through innovation, artistry, and a daring vision, he elevated craftsmanship to unmatched standards in high-end lighting. The company is headquartered in Gargas, France.
How to Coach a Next-Gen Successor with Courage and Trust
At 54, Régis Mathieu embodies visionary leadership while preparing his daughter Inès, 26, to take over the company. He intentionally involves her in every aspect of the business, from operations to creative direction, nurturing her confidence and decision-making skills. This succession process demonstrates how an entrepreneur can combine ambition and emotional intelligence to sustain growth while ensuring continuity. Their evolving relationship highlights the delicate balance between innovation and tradition, authority and collaboration, experience and renewal.
Sources
A new business case by Valérie Gauthier, Associate Professor, Leadership development, Cécile De Lisle, Executive Director of the Dieter Schwarz Foundation Center for Family Business, and Philippe Gaud, Emeritus Professor, and Mala Banerjee, Research Associate and Lecturer has been published with Harvard Business Publishing and the Case Centre.
Economics & Finance
Sustainability & Society