Family Business Continuity
Family Business Continuity and Succession Planning
We provide family business continuity services so your family business can face the future with confidence. Intentional family business succession planning can address continuity concerns such as family / business overlap, multigenerational risk, continuity beyond one leader, and ownership and leadership complexities.
We work with your family business to:
- Define your vision and purpose for the next 50 to 100 years
- Identify the family's desired "future legacy"
- Define governance, such as boards or family councils, for both the family and business
- Establish family and business policies
- Create a 5- or 10-year strategic plan aligned with the vision of the business
What is Family Business Continuity?
Family business continuity involves the intentional process of preparing a family enterprise to thrive across generations. While succession planning focuses on leadership transition, continuity planning takes a broader view by addressing governance, ownership, strategic planning, family communication, policies, and leadership development. The goal is to help both the business and the family remain strong as leadership changes, ownership expands, and future generations become increasingly involved.
The older generation of a family business could be looking for help in how to prepare the next generation for running the business. They may also need a process for helping the older generation let go of the business.
Will the Family Business Survive?
Sometimes numerous family members are owners and/or employees of the business. How do they find common ground on each other's roles and responsibilities, compensation / distributions, employment policies and strategic direction? We help families thrive in business.
Siblings as
Co-Leaders
Perhaps siblings have become co-leaders of your family business and are challenged by different visions or perspectives. An outsider can help them reach a common vision, define governance and policies for them and future generations, supporting them in creating a strategic plan of how to proceed.
Family Business Continuity
and Succession Planning FAQs
What is the difference between succession planning and family business continuity?
Succession planning focuses primarily on preparing for leadership transitions. Family business continuity takes a broader approach by addressing governance, ownership, strategic planning, family communication, leadership development, and decision-making to help the business and family remain successful across generations.
When should a family begin succession planning?
Ideally, succession planning begins years before a leadership transition is expected. Starting early gives the family time to develop future leaders, establish governance, communicate expectations, and make thoughtful decisions rather than reacting during a crisis.
Does succession planning only involve choosing the next CEO?
No. While leadership transitions are important, continuity planning also considers ownership, governance, family relationships, communication, strategic direction, and how future generations will participate in the business.
Can family members who are not active in the business be involved?
Yes. Families often include both active and non-active owners. Establishing clear governance, communication, and ownership policies helps ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities.
How do you help families manage difficult conversations?
We create a structured process that encourages open communication, thoughtful decision-making, and shared understanding while helping families navigate sensitive issues with objectivity and respect.
Do you work alongside our attorneys, accountants, and other advisors?
Yes. We collaborate with your existing professional advisors while providing an independent perspective focused on the family's long-term continuity.
How long does a continuity planning engagement typically take?
Every family is different. Some engagements focus on a specific transition, while others involve ongoing governance, strategic planning, and next-generation development over several months or longer.
