Garvin Brown recently retired from Brown-Forman Corporation, the company behind Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey, founded by his great-great-grandfather in 1870. His career with the company began as a wine salesperson in New York and evolved through various corporate and operational roles. By 2007, Garvin had become chairman, steering the company through key transitions between the fourth and fifth generations of the Brown family.

Currently, Garvin serves on Brown-Forman's family-holding company board and contributes to global initiatives in democracy and development. He is also a board member of Dendrifund, a foundation dedicated to the sustainability of the elements essential to crafting premium bourbon.

In this episode of The Dealmakers’ Edge, Aaron Strauss sits down with Garvin Brown to explore his unique journey and the pivotal role of family governance in sustaining a multi-generational business. They discuss how Brown-Forman balances innovation with tradition, the company’s marketing and brand strategies, and the importance of financial discipline. Garvin also shares insights into navigating the challenges of leadership, managing stress, and building trust with stakeholders. Additionally, they delve into his philanthropic pursuits and his passion for community impact.

1:27 – Garvin’s bicultural background and career journey at Brown-Forman

5:06 – The economics of family businesses and surviving Prohibition

8:42 – Non-family CEOs and the evolution of Brown-Forman’s governance model

13:52 – Leveraging marketing, branding, and innovation to drive financial success

20:59 – Managing stress, overcoming challenges, and fostering trust in leadership

26:27 – Philanthropy and Garvin’s dedication to sustainability and community impact

Mentioned In Leadership and Governance in a Multi-Generational Business with Garvin Brown

Brown-Forman

Headspace

Dendrifund

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