Trans-generational renewal as managerial succession: The Behn Meyer story (1840–2000)

Abstract

Built on a unique partnership principally among three families spanning more than 160 years and four generations, Behn Meyer provides fascinating insights for the study of corporate governance and managerial succession. The company was founded in Singapore in 1840 by two young men from Hamburg, a city renowned for its tradition of merchant houses and entrepreneurship. During both world wars, the British colonial administration in Malaya and Singapore imposed severe restrictions on German-owned concerns. Yet Behn Meyer's ‘resurrection’ after both world wars demonstrates the remarkable resilience of the company and the adaptability of its management practices and culture. Trans-generational continuity in managerial succession remains a major factor in the long-run survival of a firm and this case study of a family enterprise that overcame significant business and political risks provides an informed comparative analysis of managerial succession and entrepreneurship.