8 - Building Trust: How a Family Business Cultivates a Positive Company Culture
Leadership Insights from Sean Surerus in the Family Business
In this engaging episode, HR Huntsman interviews Sean Surerus, a leader at Surerus Pipeline Inc., a family-owned contracting business with deep roots in Canada’s construction and infrastructure sectors. The conversation explores Sean’s personal journey, the evolution of the family business, and the invaluable lessons he’s learned about leadership, work-life balance, and managing the unique dynamics of a multi-generational enterprise.
Family Background and Business Growth
Sean begins by sharing the origin story of Surerus Pipeline Inc., which was started by his father with little more than determination and a pickup truck. Over the years, the business grew from modest beginnings into a well-respected name in the contracting industry. Sean reflects on the sacrifices his father made, particularly in managing the demands of growing a business while trying to be present for his family. These early lessons profoundly influenced Sean’s own approach to leadership and family life.
As a father himself, Sean admits that finding balance remains a challenge. The realities of leading a large organization often mean missing important moments, such as his son’s hockey practices. This candid admission highlights the ongoing struggle many leaders face in reconciling professional responsibilities with personal commitments.
The Importance of Accountability and Communication
A recurring theme in the conversation is accountability. Sean believes that clarity around roles and responsibilities is essential for the health of any organization, but especially in a family-run business where personal relationships can sometimes blur professional expectations. He stresses that every team member must understand their contribution to the business's success, and that accountability should be embedded in the company’s culture.
Visibility is also critical in a business where leadership is not always physically present. With a head office far from many work sites, Sean emphasizes the importance of making deliberate efforts to stay engaged with the team. Being present—whether in person or through consistent communication—helps build trust, strengthen relationships, and foster a collaborative environment.
Mental Health and Well-Being
The conversation shifts to the often-overlooked topic of mental health. Sean acknowledges the pressures that come with leadership and the toll it can take on well-being. He shares that he prioritizes sleep, physical activity, and time outdoors to maintain his own health. He believes that leaders must care for themselves if they hope to support others effectively.
Sean also recognizes the mental health challenges that employees face in the construction industry, where long hours, remote work, and tight deadlines can lead to stress and burnout. He is committed to fostering a workplace culture that prioritizes wellness and encourages open conversations about mental health. Supporting employees’ well-being, he believes, leads to stronger, more resilient teams.
Advice for Young Entrepreneurs
When asked what advice he’d offer to aspiring entrepreneurs, Sean underscores the importance of understanding the financial fundamentals of running a business. He explains that many young business owners focus heavily on their vision while neglecting key areas like cash flow, profitability, and administrative discipline. A strong operational foundation, he argues, is essential to long-term sustainability.
Sean also shares a realistic view of entrepreneurship. It’s not glamorous or easy, he says, and often requires significant personal and financial sacrifice. Young entrepreneurs must be prepared for the grind and be willing to learn from others. Mentorship and peer support can provide critical perspective and guidance along the way.
Scaling a Business
The topic of business growth brings Sean to a discussion about scaling operations. He highlights talent acquisition and retention as two of the most pressing challenges for any growing business. Finding skilled individuals who align with the company’s culture and values is key to sustaining momentum and success.
Sean also talks about the power of partnerships. He shares how Surerus Pipeline Inc. has collaborated with other organizations to scale their impact while mitigating risk. These partnerships are built on trust, and he believes that true collaboration requires a willingness to share leadership and empower others to take on responsibilities.
Navigating Family Dynamics in Business
One of the more nuanced parts of the conversation revolves around family dynamics in business. Sean reflects on the difficulty of maintaining professional boundaries when working with family members. Patience, he says, is essential—especially for younger family members entering the business. Understanding and respecting generational differences can go a long way in building strong working relationships.
For parents involved in a family business, Sean offers thoughtful advice: take the time to truly understand the aspirations and perspectives of your children. Creating space for open dialogue, and distinguishing between familial and professional roles, helps build mutual respect and a healthy work environment.
Conclusion
This episode provides rich insight into the realities of leading a family business in a competitive industry. Sean Surerus’s reflections on leadership, accountability, mental health, and family dynamics offer practical wisdom for both emerging entrepreneurs and seasoned business leaders. His story reminds us that success is not just about growth and profitability—it’s also about creating an environment where people can thrive, relationships can flourish, and future generations can carry the torch with confidence.
