This introductory module sets the stage for the Minor in Family Business Program. In these first two days, we discuss the distinct characteristics – strengths as well as potential weaknesses – not only of family enterprises, but also of the families that own them. We explore the basics of family dynamics, covering important topics such as birth order and sibling dynamics, effective communication and conflict resolution, and the role of cohesion in building a lasting, aligned, and effective enterprising family. We begin discussing the role of family governance, a topic that will be deepened in the Governance module (Module 3, led by Prof. Miguel Mendez).

Dates: April 4 and 5

Claudia Binz Astrachan and Joseph Astrachan

This module explores the emotional dimensions at the intersection of the family, the ownership and the business systems.

The participants will be invited to take upon the challenge of reflecting on three main questions by learning about the latest research and best practices and applying them to their own situation: Why our family business emotions matter? How emotions shape our behavior and decision-making? How to manage and govern emotions towards family harmony, responsible ownership and business continuity?

Dates: May 2 and 3

Rania Labaki and Martin Euwema

This module explores the basics of corporate governance: those structures and processes for securing and successfully performing the most influential organizational decision-making. It discusses effective governance practices and contextualizes governance in the specific case of family firms. The module includes the several dimensions that have to be governed in the family firm: the family, the ownership, the Board of Directors, and the management.

Dates: June 6 and 7

Miguel Mendez

The challenge of transitioning ownership and leadership in a family business is both a strategic and emotional challenge.  What should ownership look like in the next generation? What does the family business need from its next leader?  How do we select that leader? This module will explore how families successfully answer these questions and how they build a system of communication and governance that allows for an effective transition between the generations. In addition, this module will explore how to engage the next generation in the family business as they grow and develop, help them build their credibility and knowledge, and help them be productive contributors to the family business. The challenge for the next generation is to find a place in the family business, the family business governance, and/or the family business ownership that reflects is authentic to who they are. 

Dates: July 11 and 12

Andrew Keyt

A commonly asked question regarding family business strategy is if it is really that different from non-family business, or simply other types of business strategy. The answer might be obvious for some, eye-rolling or satisfying for others, but the fact is that regardless of the level of involvement, the family tends to be influential on the business long-term vision and goals and that needs to be recognized and examined. In this course participants will deep-dive on the effects of family and business goals on strategic decision making, identify and assess the challenges these effects have on business and corporate strategy, and interpret, and manage the long-term implications of those effects in family business performance and continuation across time. Following a practical and participant-centered approach participants will analyze, apply, assess, and formulate the best strategies for their own businesses and/or real-life family businesses.

Dates: August 8 and 9

Ana Gonzalez

Innovation, that is, the activities through which a firm conceives, designs, manufactures, and introduces a new product, service, or technique is key to respond to the challenges offered by a quick-changing context as ours. This is especially important for family business as a consequence of its ability to reflect the continuity of transgenerational wealth creation. This module explores different aspects and singularities of innovation processes in family businesses such as family-driven innovation, the willingness-ability paradox, or innovation based on tradition. It discusses effective innovation practices and sheds light about how to deal with difficulties inherent to family businesses. The module includes an analysis of which could and should be the role of the family during different innovation processes.

Dates: September 5 and 6

Unai Arzubiaga

The "Wealth, Ownership and Family Offices" module is a two-day intensive designed to provide a comprehensive exploration of ownership, wealth management and family office structures. Day one focuses on the complexities of family business wealth, ownership structures, and intergenerational wealth transition strategies. Day two shifts to the empowerment of business families through the establishment and optimization of family offices, offering practical insights through case studies. Participants will leave with a deepened understanding of wealth preservation, growth strategies, and family dynamics in business.

Dates: October 3 and 4

Salvatore Tomaselli

This module integrates and synthesizes the material and the knowledge gained during the seven previous modules as applied to your personal life and business. it is a practical application of the concepts and learning to your own personal experience and a sharing with your fellow students. Students will present their personal and family objectives and development plan.

Dates: November 14 and 15

Veronica Maldonado