Case Study
Guiding a multigenerational family through transition
See how our specialized advice helped the Montclair family safeguard their legacy and maintain unity through succession planning.
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Published February 2026
When Laura Montclair began planning the transition of Montclair Family Industries—a family manufacturing business spanning three generations—she faced the challenge of balancing family interests, succession and the company’s continued growth.
Partnering with J.P. Morgan Private Bank’s Private Business Advisory (PBA) team, Laura and her extended family received expert guidance and tailored strategies to navigate this pivotal moment—ensuring both the business and the family legacy would thrive for years to come.
Background
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Montclair Family Industries was founded by Laura’s father, William Montclair, in the 1960s as a small metalworks shop.
Over the decades, the business grew into a leading manufacturer of precision components, serving clients in the automotive, aerospace and industrial sectors. Today, Montclair Family Industries is valued over $500 million.
The company is more than just a business—it’s a family legacy. Laura, the current CEO, has led the company for the past 20 years, building on her father’s vision. Her brother, David, oversees operations, while her cousin, Rachel, manages client relationships and business development. Another cousin, Michael, runs the plant in the Midwest, while Laura’s daughter and niece—who represent the third generation—are focused on innovation. Several other family members hold minority stakes or serve on the board, each with their own perspectives and aspirations.
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With the business thriving, Laura faced a new challenge: how to transition Montclair Family Industries to the next generation, setting up the company for future growth while honoring the contributions and aspirations of each family member.
As Laura considered the transition, she faced several critical questions:
How do we address the fact that some family members are seeking liquidity, while others wish to remain actively involved in the business?
What is the best way to navigate differing perspectives among family members regarding the company’s future direction and growth strategy?
How do we determine which family members are best qualified to take on executive or management roles, and ensure that leadership transitions are based on merit and the long-term needs of the business?
Without clear answers, the Montclair family risked not only missed opportunities for growth and potential disruption during the transition, but also the possibility of straining family relationships—challenges that could jeopardize both the business and the harmony that has been central to their success across generations.
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Laura Montclair and her family turned to J.P. Morgan Private Bank for support in transitioning Montclair Family Industries to the next generation. The Private Business Advisory team recognized that sustaining the company’s legacy meant not only preparing for leadership change, but also positioning the business for continued growth and resilience.
Understanding the business, family goals and dynamics
Bringing family together and reorganizing for harmony
Advice for long-term growth and legacy
Protecting legacy and planning for the future
To safeguard the company’s legacy, the Advisory team helped the family draft a buy-sell agreement, and worked with them to formalize the company’s philanthropic initiatives. They also implemented estate and tax planning strategies, using trusts to preserve family wealth for future generations.
With the support of the Private Business Advisory team, the Montclair family achieved a smooth leadership transition, preserved family harmony and positioned Montclair Family Industries for sustained growth.
The company entered new markets, strengthened its governance and formalized its philanthropic mission, while the family’s wealth and legacy were protected for future generations.
J.P. Morgan Private Bank delivered a personalized plan for one family looking to transition a multigenerational business.
Our strategic advice and comprehensive planning were instrumental in helping drive successful outcomes..
All case studies are shown for illustrative purposes only and are hypothetical. Any name referenced is fictional and may not be representative of other individual experiences. Information is not a guarantee of future results.
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