Family Business
Code
2416
Academic unit
null
Department
null
Credits
3,5
Teacher in charge
Alexandre Wende Dias da Cunha
Teaching language
English
Objectives
In the past, academic circles did not pay much attention to family firms, because it was assumed that relevant companies, with exception of first-generation entrepreneurs, were highly professionalized and either state-owned or widely-traded.
Business schools have come to recognize that family involvement in business is a complex and exciting subject, which is worthy of study. Managing the Family Business is addressed to students who:
-are members of a business-owning family;
-may one day work for a family-owned business;
-may one day work as advisors or service providers to family-owned businesses (as accountants, bankers, consultants, etc.).
Topics covered in the course include:
-The challenges of Family Business systems and the 3 Circle Model
-The distinctive nature of the family firm
Family dynamics
-Ownership aspects in family firms
-Financial considerations unique to family firms
-Career choices, succession and the transfer of power in Family Business
Prerequisites
N/A
Subject matter
Session 1: Introduction and Overview
Session 2: Theoretical perspectives on Family Business
Session 3: Family systems and Family Business ownership
Session 4: Succession the next generation
Session 5: Succession the transfer of power
Session 6: Non-family managers and the family-owned business
Session 7: Financial matters and estate planning
Session 8: Family Business Governance: the role of the board
Session 9: Family Business Governance: the role of family meetings
Session 10: Communication, conflict management and fair process
Session 11: Communication, conflict management and fair process
Session 12: Wrap-up and/or live case presentation
Bibliography
RESOURCES.
Teaching method
Students are expected to prepare the materials announced in advance (readings and/or cases) and consequently to participate in class in a meaningful way (i.e. with inputs that improve the quality of learning of the class). The course will combine theoretical concepts with a practical view. The following methods will be used:
Evaluation method
Final grades will be determined by the following inputs, depending on individual students personal choice between two options (A and B):
-Class participation: 15% (Option A) or 10% (Option B)
-Group assignments (four to six Shared Learning Papers): 35% (option A and option B)
-One Final Exam: 50% (option A) or 40% (option B)
-One Individual Project: 25% (option B only)