Transition – in business and in life – is inevitable. Many family business owners hope to pass their business or accumulated wealth to the next generation of family members. These same owners often dream of a comfortable and fulfilling retirement, too.
However, research has shown that most incumbents do not properly plan for generational succession, nor are the next generation adequately prepared for the responsibilities involved. Statistically, a successful transition from first to second generation occurs in less than one-third of cases, and only one in ten make it to the third generation.
Family business owners can achieve the best transition outcome if they devote adequate time and resources to planning the succession process.
A plan for business continuity
We have developed the FREEDOM Framework to assist families in developing and implementing a successful succession plan.
Our unique consulting process uncovers the seven most common barriers to success, and utilises a tried and tested facilitation model to achieve family consensus and a defined action plan to light the pathway ahead.
F [Financial security]
Have the current owners' accumulated sufficient wealth outside of the business…or, will a transfer generate sufficient funds to properly redress the situation in an appropriate timeframe?
R [Refocus of life plan]
Do the current owners have meaningful activities outside of the business which will sustain them as they scale back their involvement?
E [Electing a successor]
Are the current owners able to choose a successor from the available candidates…and is the candidate willing to accept?
E [Education and support]
Does the next gen have the relevant qualifications and experience, and access to personal development, coaching and mentoring resources to guide them through transition?
D [Disasters & unplanned events]
Is there a plan which considers contingencies in the case of death, disability or other crisis events?
O [Objectives alignment]
Do the current and next gens have a shared vision or agreed family values in respect of the family business?
M [Managing communication]
Is there appropriate communication and trust between the current and next gens, enabling effective decisions and the sharing of information?
The consultation process
