Following the leader

Handing over a business does not always go swimmingly, whether it passes down the family line or to up-and-coming management. Simon Threadgold points out how to ensure the intentions of the out-going owner are in sync with those of their replacement.

Running a business is an all-consuming passion, which the owner often
finds hard to give up. Planning the transfer of control into other hands
is one of the most important tasks the boss will ever undertake.


For brokers, the situation has been complicated by impending regulatory
changes and fluctuating market conditions. Those in their late 50s know
that carrying on as normal will only put off the inevitable but timing
their move can be difficult.


Some simply feel obliged to keep going. With