Daughters Changing the Conversation About Succession

Women in Family Business

After being traditionally excluded from the succession process, women’s role within the family business is finally changing. This shifting trend coincides with the leadership transition from Baby Boomers to younger generations. The fundamental, generational difference in attitude about gender is helping to fuel this progress; however, as Professor Francesca Maria Cesaroni knows first-hand, obstacles persist.

Full Professor at Italy’s University of Urbino and co-author of “Do dreams always come true? Daughters’ expectations and experience in family business succession”, Professor Cesaroni has interviewed countless women around the world about the challenges of manoeuvrability in their family businesses.

For many, unequal expectations for sons and daughters continue to colour the family business experience. However, Professor Cesaroni believes that to achieve success and sustainability, families must level the playing field by adopting an inclusionary approach that taps on all available talent.

WiFB spoke with Professor Francesca Maria Cesaroni about her research and how she believes it will influence the future of women in family business and entrepreneurs alike.