Lombard Odier · 17 Sep, 06:00 · Business briefing

Entrepreneurs: family business succession and sustainable innovation

Lombard Odier’s latest analysis examines the critical intersection between family business succession planning and sustainable innovation.

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The briefing

The story
in brief.

What happened, who it affects, and why it landed on our intelligence desk — in plain English, sixty seconds or less.

Lombard Odier’s latest analysis examines the critical intersection between family business succession planning and sustainable innovation. The report highlights how established enterprises must balance intergenerational leadership transitions with the urgent need to integrate environmental, social, and governance principles. It suggests that successful succession is no longer merely about transferring ownership but requires embedding long-term sustainability into the core business model. This dual focus ensures continuity while adapting to modern regulatory and consumer expectations, positioning family firms for resilient growth in an evolving economic landscape.

Employer demand for Leadership skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

Your move

What this means
for your career.

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You must now view succession not just as a legal transfer, but as a strategic overhaul requiring sustainability expertise. Professionals with skills in governance and ESG integration will see heightened demand, as family offices seek advisors who can bridge generational gaps while embedding green practices. If you work in management consulting, finance, or corporate strategy, you should immediately upskill in sustainable business models. Do not ignore the operational side; understanding how to measure and report on sustainability metrics is now essential. Actively seek roles involving stakeholder management and long-term value creation. Prepare to advise on how legacy firms can innovate without losing their cultural identity, making you indispensable to firms navigating this complex transition.

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Indicative salary uplift in the fields matched to this story
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