Episode Description:
Ever wonder how missed opportunities can shape a successful family business? Hear how Aaron Nosek and his family turned a basement operation into an industry leader despite passing on the chance to invest in Nike. This episode uncovers Keson's remarkable journey from humble beginnings, starting with Aaron's grandfather's career switch from foundry work to innovative fiberglass tape measures, and the entrepreneurial spirit that drove them forward.
Family drama and business rarely mix smoothly, and the Nosek family is no exception. Aaron shares the intense family dynamics and sibling discord that forced his father to wind down his law practice and rejoin Keson. Discover the strategic moves that Aaron and his cousins made to resolve conflicts and redefine ownership, including a crucial partnership with Austrian company Sola. As Aaron stepped into his role as president in 2001, these changes not only preserved the family legacy but also opened doors for the fourth generation.
Leading a family business through economic crises and personal challenges is no small feat. Aaron opens up about his journey from customer service to president during the 2008-2009 housing crisis, and how the company redefined Keson's brand and values based on his grandparents' principles. Learn valuable lessons on managing family business succession, the importance of transparent communication, and the pressures of maintaining a legacy. Tune in for heartfelt gratitude to key individuals and insights that can help any family business navigate the turbulent waters of succession planning.
Connect with Aaron Nosek:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-nosek-32611a28/
Learn more about Keson Industries: https://www.keson.com/
About Keson Industries:
WE ARE A FAMILY OWNED COMPANY.
In 2018, the Nosek and Scheyer families joined together to form a new company – Keson LLC. Keson and SOLA are both family-owned, third generation companies currently led by the grandsons of the company founders. Keson started in 1968 in the basement of the Nosek family home in Berwyn, Illinois. SOLA started in 1949 with a leveling tool invented on the roof of the Scheyer family home in Goetzis, Austria. Both companies are leaders in measuring and marking tools, offer complementary product lines, and share very similar values. With a combined 120 years of market experience, Keson LLC builds upon Keson’s U.S. manufacturing, existing distribution network and strong relationships by adding SOLA’s European manufacturing expertise, precision engineering and industry-leading technology.
Keson is headquartered in Aurora, Illinois, and is well known in North America for providing reliable, innovative, and easy-to-use measuring and marking products to professional tradespeople who are passionate about their work. SOLA is headquartered in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in the shadow of the Austrian Alps and is a market leader in spirit and screeding levels in 30 countries around the world. Now united, and operating from Aurora, Keson LLC will provide the outstanding products and service that will continue us to earn and keep the trust of tradespeople and of those who supply them with the tools they need.
Connect with Dr. Donna:
LinkedIn | https://www.drdonnamarino.com/
Sign up for my Newsletter: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/newsletter-sign-up
Learn more about Dr. Donna’s Executive Coaching:
Podcast Category:
Business: Management
Business: Careers
Podcast Artist Name: Dr. Donna Marino
Show Email: donna@drdonnamarino.com
how Website URL: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/
