Running a family business

To support the unique needs of family businesses, KPMG Enterprise has created a global network dedicated to offering relevant information and advice to family-owned companies. We understand that the nature of a family business is inherently different from a nonfamily business and requires an approach that considers the family component.

Your business has a unique element that no other business has—the aspect of the family. This difference can play a significant role in decision making and offers both opportunities and challenges. We understand that the growth and sustainability of your family business lies in the fine balance between the needs of the business and the expectations of your family members.With its knowledge and experience with family businesses around the world, KPMG Enterprise business advisers have worked with companies - large and small - to address the needs of the business, and the family.

When it comes to running a business, the toughest decisions can be around succession. As an owner-manager, you want to make the right choices, for your business – and your family. Starting early is critical for a smooth transition. By making decisions and developing transition timelines, you can avoid conflict and build the support and buy-in your successor will need.

KPMG Enterprise family business advisers can help you manage the sensitivities that come with succession and provide confidential advice on the implications of any decisions your family might make. When the time comes, we can also help your successor take on his or her new role.

Starting a family business is easy, relatively speaking; sustaining it beyond a couple of generations is the hardest part. It’s often said that the typical family business goes from rags to riches and back to rags in three generations. Better governance of a family business can help improve performance and satisfy the expectations of all family members.  Establishing a governance framework that includes a family constitution and code of conduct for family members can help your family deal with changes in the business constructively. It requires your family to think through important scenarios before critical decisions have to be made and find agreement on important family and business goals.

Growth is an essential ingredient to continued business success. While most businesses can achieve growth organically, this can require considerable time and effort.  In order to grow sustainably, entrepreneurial  businesses must consider all of their market opportunities including seeking out complementary businesses for acquisition, potentially divesting non-core businesses, outsourcing functions to increase cost efficiencies and potentially expanding into the emerging markets.

The need for effective risk management and controls is crucial in an environment of increased scrutiny. It is important to minimize these risks in an entrepreneurial business, not only for the business itself, but also for the family, property holdings and capital. Implementing controls, securing new financing, efficient tax management and optimization can all have a positive impact on the bottom line of your  business.

Sometimes, an exit strategy rather than a succession plan is needed as there isn’t a next generation of family members who are ready, willing or able to continue the business.  The sale of your business is often a once-in-a-lifetime transaction, with just one opportunity to get it right. There are many options when considering an exit for the family business—KPMG Enterprise family business advisers can work with you to examine the options available to you and assist with the transaction itself.