Wendy McDonald has led the BC Bearing Group for more than 55 years. The 83-year-old, three-time widow who actively chairs the company that was founded by her first husband, Robert MacPherson, shudders at the thought of retiring.

Her hands-on style has grown the enterprise to $163 million in annual revenue and a presence in five countries and she is reluctant to let go. Her business acumen, tireless work ethic and enduring passion for business has won the great-grandmother the admiration and respect of colleagues and competitors. She was the first woman chair of the Vancouver Board of Trade, in 1990, and she has earned a flurry of accolades. The Veuve Clicquot Award of Distinction, which is awarded to top businesswomen in different countries each year, is among her favourite honours. So is her Order of Canada designation.

Between guiding her company, forging relationships, volunteering time and being matriarch of a family of 10 children, 28 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren, McDonald has fended off buyout bids and vowed to keep the company for future generations.

“It’s a family company and I don’t want to be bought out,” she said.

What professional achievement are you most proud of? Being president of the global Bearing Specialist Association in 1985 when that group held its convention in Vancouver.

What’s the greatest barrier you’ve had to overcome in your career? When a branch manager tried to take over my business when I was on a month-long trip to visit suppliers in the 1950s. I found out that he was taking confidential information and customers and I let him go.

Who had the biggest influence on your career? One of our directors, Larry Dampier. He mentored me when I was younger.

What network or organization has most helped you in your career? The Vancouver Board of Trade has been a great place to network and get to know people.

What was your toughest decision? Buying Norcan Fluid Power Group last year, when that company had $35 million in annual sales. It was a tough decision because I had to spend a lot of capital to buy the company.