A Forum dedicated to sharing the challenges facing family-owned
and operated businesses is heading to the West Midlands for the
first time.
Already an established event in the East of the region, the
Family Business Forum is run by specialist insurance and financial
advisers The Wilson Organisation, which is itself in the third
generation of family ownership.
"The Family Business Forum aims to provide a supportive,
sociable and informative discussion platform and networking group
for the next generation in family businesses," says Charlotte Prow,
managing director of Wilsons.
"Since early 2008, we have hosted quarterly Family Business
Forum events across the East Midlands for the next generation of
family business leaders. The informal format of the Forum has been
incredibly well received and led to it being rapidly established as
a series of events ideal for sharing the common challenges and
situations, regardless of sector, of operating a family owned
business.
"Based on the excellent feedback from the individuals and
organisations attending these Forums, we see a real potential for
rolling out this concept and expanding it into a region-wide
Midlands initiative, which is focussed on and dedicated to
supporting family owners.
"As a professional involved, alongside my sister, in running a
family business I appreciate the real benefit of sharing
experiences - working in a family business can sometimes be a
lonely job and the Forum meetings have proved a good way to forge
friendships and new business relationships. In the difficult
economic conditions, family-run businesses have to maintain
planning and communication throughout the organisation."
The first West Midlands Family Business Forum will feature guest
speakers Amanda Allen and Ian Wright from Friend LLP, the
Birmingham-based family-owned and run accountancy and business
advisory practice, who will give a brief overview of the options
for retaining and motivating non-family members of staff. The event
will be facilitated by John Tucker of the International Centre for
Family Businesses.
Forum events are held on a quarterly basis at Malmaison in
Birmingham's Mailbox. To find out more and register your interest
in attending this or a future Forum, contact Charlotte Prow, email:
CProw@wilorg.com.