Family and Business

Family Enterprises: Navigating the Future of Wealth and Leadership
In an era of unprecedented change, family businesses are facing a multigenerational shift that is redefining the landscape of leadership, succession, and growth.

A New Era of Family Business

Family businesses are poised for a transformative era of growth and renewal. The simultaneous presence of four generations in the workforce presents a unique opportunity for intergenerational collaboration, knowledge transfer, and innovation. As technological advancements, shifting societal values, and global connectivity continue to shape the business landscape, family businesses can leverage their inherent strengths - such as agility, resilience, and long-term thinking - to thrive in this dynamic environment.

By embracing the multigenerational shift, family businesses can tap into each generation's wealth of diverse perspectives, skills, and experiences, fostering a culture of inclusivity, creativity, and continuous learning. This convergence of talent and wisdom can drive sustainable growth, social responsibility, and a lasting legacy

Market Demands

To thrive, family businesses must respond to the pressing demands of the market. Digital transformation is no longer a choice but a necessity to stay competitive and relevant. Sustainability has become a core consideration, integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into business strategy. Globalisation requires adapting to diverse cultural contexts, while talent acquisition and retention are critical in a competitive market.

Future Trends

As family businesses look to the future, several trends will shape their success. Family business succession planning is crucial to ensure a smooth transition to the next generation. Inclusive leadership, which involves valuing and leveraging the diverse perspectives and experiences of all team members, is essential. ESG and social responsibility must be embedded into business practices. At the same time, digital leadership capabilities are necessary to navigate the rapidly changing landscape.

Associated Roles

To succeed, family businesses must develop and support key roles. Family business leaders require skills and competencies to lead in a rapidly changing environment. Non-family executives bring external expertise, while board members provide strategic guidance and governance. Next-generation leaders need development to ensure a sustainable future.

What is Required to Succeed

To thrive, family businesses must possess certain qualities. Adaptability is crucial to navigating uncertainty, while strategic thinking develops a long-term vision. Emotional intelligence builds strong relationships, and digital literacy stays up-to-date with the latest technologies. Cultural competence navigates diverse contexts, and multigenerational intelligence leverages the strengths of each generation.

Selion Global's Commitment

At Selion Global, we understand the complexities of family businesses and the need to navigate the multigenerational shift. As highly seasoned experts in Family Business Consulting, we offer decades of experience and provide the latest insights and perspectives about the intricate dynamics of family businesses and the evolving demands of the market.

Our services include succession planning, leadership development, and strategic guidance to ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.

  • Dr. Tiemo Kracht
    Germany

    Dr. Tiemo Kracht is Associate Partner and Country Manager in Germany and Managing Partner and CEO of Board Connect GmbH. With nearly 25 years of experience in executive search in Germany, Dr. Kracht has established himself as a trusted advisor to organisations across various industries. Following his academic career in Germany, the USA, and Slovakia, as well as professional and leadership roles in the private and public sectors, Dr. Kracht transitioned into executive search in 1995. Over the course of his career, he has collaborated closely with family businesses and owners, supervisory, administrative, and advisory boards, as well as boards of directors and managing directors to fill executive and leadership positions.

    Dr. Kracht has also conducted insightful management audits and has successfully overseen more than 1,600 cross-industry placement processes at the executive level and in upper management.

    His expertise spans various industries, including Financial Services and Real Estate, the Public Sector, Family-owned and medium-sized businesses, and Industry. His functional expertise includes placing supervisory board members, members of the board / C-level functions, and managing directors.

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  • Ravindra Bhide
    India

    Ravindra Bhide is the Managing Partner and Country Manager of Selion Global India. With decades of professional experience, Ravindra brings a wealth of expertise to his role, having worked with top-tier clients across the automotive, process industry, and chemicals sectors.

    Ravindra's career has been marked by senior leadership roles in prominent global organisations, including Korn Ferry International, where he served as a Senior Partner and developed his expertise in leadership search and talent management. His extensive experience working in Europe, including a decade in Switzerland with Ciba Specialty Chemicals (Headquarters), has given him a unique global perspective that he brings to every project.

    Throughout his career, Ravindra has demonstrated a proven track record in leading global search assignments and consulting projects for top-tier clients. His expertise spans executive search and leadership assessment, coaching and mentoring, talent management and development, and change management and ERP implementation support.

    As Managing Partner and Country Manager of Selion Global India, Ravindra spearheads the firm's presence in India, bringing his expertise and network to bear in supporting clients in the region and beyond. He is passionate about teaching, coaching, and development and maintains strong connections with his alma mater and various business schools.

    Ravindra's academic background includes a Bachelor's in Commerce/Accounting and a Master's in Management Studies (Finance) from SPJIMR, University of Mumbai. He is also a Fellow of India's Institute of Cost and Management Accountants. 

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  • Markus Gfeller
    Japan

    Markus Gfeller is Associate Partner and Country Manager of Selion Global Japan and the Managing Partner of G&S Japan K.K., a leading corporate consulting and retained executive search firm dedicated to supporting European businesses in Japan.

    As a seasoned executive with over 27 years of experience in Japan, Markus has built a distinguished career in international corporate finance, change management, and executive search. His expertise spans from his early days in banking with Credit Suisse to his tenure with BayernLB, where he honed his skills in international corporate finance with a strong focus on Asia.

    Markus's passion for Japan has led him to become fluent in Japanese, enabling him to navigate the complex business landscape with ease. He has taken on various leadership roles, including Managing Director and President positions at HARTING and KABA, where he drove change management initiatives. In 2009, he joined G&S Japan K.K. as Senior Partner and later became the Managing Partner, leading the firm's expansion and growth in Japan.

    Under his leadership, G&S Japan K.K. has become a trusted partner to multinational corporations, providing expert guidance in executive search, market entry, expansion, and change management. Markus's extensive network, cultural understanding, and business acumen make him a highly respected advisor to companies navigating the complex Japanese market.

    Professional Associations:

    • Member of German Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan (GCCIJ), Tokyo

    • Member of Swiss Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan (SCCIJ), Tokyo

    • Member of Italian Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ICCJ), Tokyo

    • Member of Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan (CCCJ), Tokyo

    • Member of the Foreign Correspondent’s Club of Japan (FCCJ), Tokyo

    • Member of the Tokyo American Club (TAC), Tokyo

    Others:

    • Former Vice President of the Swiss Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan

    • President of the Section of Education of the Swiss Club Tokyo

     

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  • Cecile Hofer
    South East Asia / Singapore / United Kingdom

    Cecile Hofer is a Founder and Global Managing Partner of Selion Global. With a storied career spanning decades and continents, Cecile has established herself as a trusted advisor to C-suite executives, boards, and investors seeking to future-proof their organisations.

    A seasoned management consultant with a profound understanding of the intricacies of human capital, Cecile has cultivated her expertise in C-suite appointments, advisory, and strategic guidance for mid-sized and large corporations, family-owned enterprises, and venture capitalists worldwide. Her extensive experience in board and leadership consulting services has equipped her with a unique understanding of the challenges faced by senior leaders, allowing her to distil complexity into clarity and connect the dots between people, purpose, and profit.

    Cecile's areas of expertise include building and enhancing boards, succession planning, culture and diversity hiring expertise, and senior talent management across various industries. Her ability to identify and develop top talent, advise on strategic leadership initiatives, and foster effective boards and executive teams has earned her a reputation as a trusted confidante to senior leaders.

    Through her leadership, Selion Global Retreats brings together distinguished experts, boards, and business leaders to foster growth, innovation, and collaboration. Her passion for empowering leadership excellence extends beyond her professional pursuits, as she finds inspiration in sports and photography, embracing a philosophy of dynamic living and fostering meaningful connections that resonate

    Cecile has built a reputation as a leader who can navigate complexity, drive results, and inspire others to do the same. Her distinctive strength lies in her ability to discern patterns, connect the dots, and unlock the potential of individuals and organisations alike, fostering sustainable growth and transformation.

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