Taking over the leadership of an 80-year-old family business at just 19 years old is already an uncommon achievement. Achieving 64% growth over the following three years is even more remarkable. This is the accomplishment of Dylan Beauséjour.
Today, at 23 years old, Dylan serves as Vice-President of Grillage Bolar, a company specializing in innovative grilles and access hatches. He reflects on an entrepreneurial succession journey that took a different path from the traditional roadmap.
Born to Be an Entrepreneur
Dylan Beauséjour says it openly: he was born with a passion for the business. From the age of 11, he balanced school with time spent in the workshop founded by his grandfather, André Lazure.
His mother, Karine Lazure, introduced him to every aspect of production. He learned, observed, and developed his skills over time. Curious by nature, Dylan explored other fields during his teenage years, including mechanics, butchery, and maintenance work.
During the pandemic, his mother shared her intention to step back from the business and offered him the opportunity to take over the family legacy. The decision quickly became clear. “I always knew I wanted to become an entrepreneur. I chose Bolar because of its products, its team, and its work environment. Nothing is perfect, but no matter the industry, the grass is never greener somewhere else,” explains Dylan. His mother remained President throughout the acquisition process, but Dylan was already actively leading the company’s direction.
A Succession Without a Clear Plan
When the transition began, there was no structured succession plan in place. This type of instinctive transition is common, especially among family businesses. To guide the process, Dylan and his mother initially worked with a specialized firm, but the approach was not the right fit. “Their explanations were too technical. We weren’t moving forward, but the fees kept adding up,” Dylan recalls.
Eventually, through their financial institution, they connected with experts who were able to simplify the challenges and provide practical solutions. A transition plan was developed, including an estate freeze to establish the company’s value and a gradual transfer of ownership shares. Beyond the financial aspects, the human element proved to be just as important. Unspoken expectations and a lack of communication created challenges throughout the process.
“With hindsight, my mother and I could have communicated better. We never had major conflicts, but a mediator helped us maintain a positive and successful relationship. We are both action-oriented people—we don’t always approach things analytically—so we adapted along the way.”
— Dylan Beauséjour, Vice-President of Grillage Bolar
According to Jean-Philippe Ménard, First Vice-President, Regional Network and Innovation at Investissement Québec, Dylan’s case remains exceptional. “A business transfer usually takes three to five years. A success story like Bolar’s, with a talented entrepreneur like Dylan Beauséjour and no initial plan, is the exception. It is a rare talent, comparable to finding a National Hockey League player.”
Dylan’s entrepreneurial journey was also recognized through Grillage Bolar’s nomination in the Mercuriades
Trust as a Legacy
Raised in an environment where independence was encouraged, Dylan was never sheltered from challenges. His mother taught him the fundamentals of management while giving him the freedom to learn and grow. Mistakes became an essential part of his development. “I made a decision that cost the company $100,000. My approach to human resources was not optimal at first either, but those experiences taught me to clarify expectations and communicate better.”
For Jean-Philippe Ménard, this combination of trust and adaptability is essential. “A successful transition is not measured by the absence of mistakes, but by the ability to adapt and adjust.”
Leading with Confidence
From the moment he stepped into his leadership role, Dylan made it a priority to build strong relationships with his team. During periods of increased workload, he does not hesitate to return to the production floor and lend a hand.
“I want to represent values of respect, teamwork, and kindness. I do not lead through fear.”
— Dylan Beauséjour, Vice-President of Grillage Bolar
From a business perspective, growth has been driven by two key factors: expanding into new markets, including the roofing sector, and strengthening customer relationships. “I personally met with our customers one by one to strengthen those relationships. This approach worked, and for many of them, my fresh perspective helped build confidence.” Today, Dylan continues to carry forward the legacy of Grillage Bolar while shaping its future with ambition, innovation, and the same passion that has guided the company for three generations.
https://www.lapresse.ca/affaires/portfolio/2026-05-04/mercuriades/reprendre-une-entreprise-a-19-ans-et-en-faire-exploser-la-croissance.php
