Conflict in a family-owned business is very complicated because people’s business and personal lives are both at risk. Disputes affect the entire family and can break the trust between family members.
I help mend relationships between the parties and break the impasse so you can refocus and move forward. I work confidentially to help uncover business and family issues so you can consider all factors in your decision-making.
Some family members may not want to discuss the problem. They may not agree that there is a problem. In these situations, I consult with these individuals by telephone to understand their perspective so we can identify next steps.
Succession Planning in a Family-Owned Business
Succession planning is often avoided in family businesses until it must be done. Conflicts may arise in the years leading up to the inevitable handover of power. Family members may disagree about roles, responsibilities and capabilities. Egos and emotions may take over so practical and pragmatic decision-making becomes difficult or impossible.
As a neutral third party, I help participants investigate business alternatives while considering family issues, so each stakeholder can see what is best for them and the business. Ultimately a successful, long term business is in everyone’s best interest.
For more details, read about Process & Fees. Contact me for your free consultation.
“Unlike fine wines, disputes do not improve with age.”
Willard Z. Estey
Former Supreme Court of Canada Justice
I have known Michael through several of his career manifestations, as an executive recruiter, a consultant and a mediator.
In whatever role Michael undertook, he demonstrated an extremely valuable talent for assessing people and then used that judgement and knowledge to bring people together.
The ability to understand people, their strengths and weaknesses, and then create win-win situations is a rare gift, and I have relied on his assessment skills a number of times.
He has always proven to be professional, high-energy, hard-working and a pleasure to work with.
I regard Michael as someone on whom I can always rely and whose counsel I will continue to seek.