Learning Leadership Across Generations In Family-Owned Enterprises

Abstract

This study explores leadership development issues in family businesses. Family owned enterprises comprise a significant proportion of the business population. However, approximately half of family owned businesses do not survive generational transitions. The sheer number of ongoing leadership transitions begs greater understanding on how leadership is learned in the family business and how to improve the leadership development process. This study sought to understand how leadership is learned across generations by asking family business leaders about their own experience and perceptions. Family business leadership development themes and needs for education and research are identified.