Family businesses are often viewed through the lens of tradition—steadfast, familiar, and consistent. But beneath the surface lies a quiet revolution. Increasingly, it is the interweaving of different generations within these firms that is driving innovation, digital transformation, and strategic evolution. Where one generation brings experience, resilience, and long-term thinking, the next brings fresh perspective, digital fluency, and a desire for change. Together, they cre

Family businesses form the bedrock of the global economy. From traditional high-street shops to cutting-edge tech start-ups, the...

Succession planning is often one of the most delicate and decisive phases in the life of a family business. While many enterprises thrive...

Family businesses across the UK are now at a more pressing crossroads, with recent changes to Business Property Relief (BPR) and Agricultural Property Relief (APR) announced in the UK Government’s Autumn Budget. These adjustments are pushing many families to reconsider their options—whether passing the business to the next generation remains viable or if a sale may ultimately serve the best interests of the family, their employees, and the communities they support. The questi

The family business leaders of tomorrow will need to cultivate a diverse set of skills and competencies to successfully navigate the evolving landscape of business and family dynamics. As these businesses often operate at the intersection of personal relationships and professional responsibilities, future leaders must be adept at balancing these elements while steering their businesses toward growth and sustainability. One of the most crucial skills for future family business

Wielding an estimated $150 billion purchasing power globally, Gen Z consumers – spanning those born between 1997 and 2012 – are a...

For generations, daughters were often overlooked for succession in family businesses, with gender playing a decisive role in leadership choices. Males were traditionally favoured, and if daughters joined the family enterprise, they were typically relegated to lower-level tasks, far from the helm of leadership. Daughters entered family businesses for varied reasons, including family loyalty, filling undesired roles, seeking flexible schedules, and enhancing job satisfaction. D

In family-run businesses, keeping control over operations, wealth, and legacy across generations can be challenging. A Family Protector can be a crucial figure in safeguarding family interests, managing wealth, and ensuring smooth leadership transitions. What Is A Family Protector? A Family Protector is a trusted individual appointed to oversee and protect a family's wealth, business interests, and legacy as it passes from one generation to the next. This role can vary depend

One of the most common sentiments I hear from family business owners is, “I don’t know if my children are interested in coming into the business. I certainly don’t want to force them; they have to make their own minds up.” It’s an admirable approach—one that respects the autonomy and individual paths of the next generation. But, while the intention behind this sentiment is commendable, the reality is often more complex. The question we need to ask ourselves is this: Are the c

Family business succession planning is a critical yet often overlooked aspect of managing a family-owned business. With a vast majority...

Family business succession planning is a complex and challenging process that involves transferring leadership and ownership from one...

As an experienced Family Business Advisor, I understand the unique dynamics, joys, and challenges that come with passing the torch to the...

Family businesses are renowned for their legacy and continuity, often spanning multiple generations. As the torch passes from one generation to the next, the role of non-family CEOs and Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) becomes increasingly vital in preparing the rising generation for leadership roles within the family firm. These seasoned professionals offer mentorship, guidance, and a fresh perspective that can help bridge the transition gap and pave the way for a successful s

For some individuals, working in a family business can be an incredible gift. For others, the family business is a prison, without any chance of parole. For those who are feeling trapped in the family business, ownership of the business is more burden than pleasure. The freedom that their family business allows is overshadowed by a lack of business process and clear structure. Having their name on the door is not worth being “on call” 24/7, or never being able to really take

Today, possibly more so than ever before, sustaining the legacy of family businesses requires innovative approaches to involve the next...

Succession planning and the engagement of the next generation and their development are key aspects that should be on the agenda for all...

Jonathan Burke, partner and head of the industrial manufacturing leadership practice at executive search specialist, Berwick Partners ,...

If you’re a fan of the television show Succession, or if you’re aware of the conflicts playing out publicly and perennially among some of the most visible family businesses in the world — think the Murdochs or Sumner Redstone’s family— you might assume that family businesses are more fragile than other forms of enterprise. Indeed, that’s the conventional wisdom: Many articles or speeches about family businesses today include a reference to the ‘three-generation rule,’ which s