Owners' Day featured insightful discussions on the distinct responsibilities and opportunities that come with ownership, highlighting how family enterprise leaders can cultivate long-term strategies while embracing the complexities of their roles. Themes such as values-aligned decision-making, the importance of ownership conversations within families, and the unique challenges faced by multigenerational enterprises were central to the dialogue.

Speakers shared personal stories and practical insights that resonated with attendees, emphasizing the importance of both strategic thinking and emotional connection in fostering successful family enterprises. Whether navigating governance structures, engaging with philanthropic efforts, or investing in sustainable ventures, the speakers underscored the importance of intentionality in every aspect of ownership.

Speaker Reflections:

Here's what our speakers had to say about their experience:

During and after the gathering, students asked great questions about alignment of values and resources; I’m continuing the conversation with several of them.

Justin Rockefeller headshot

Justin Rockefeller

Cofounder and Chair of the Board, The ImPact

Operating a family business through six generations has required making careful decisions and adapting to challenges, which has allowed the company to thrive over time. I’ve really enjoyed learning from other panelists on their lived experiences in family businesses and sharing with those that appreciate the value of an owners mindset.

Tassilo Laubmann '25 headshot

Tassilo Laubmann '25

The session highlighted the challenges and rewards of the owner role within family enterprise and how it changes as enterprises leave the founders behind.

Barbara Dartt headshot

Barbara Dartt

Principal Consultant, Family Business Consulting Group

The inaugural CBS Owner’s Day was an insightful conversation on the unique opportunities and challenges of ownership. The conversation illuminated how thoughtful and intentional earlier generations must be while building the family enterprise, and how impactful and entrepreneurial rising generations can be as they “leave their fingerprints” on the next generation. This event is one that all enterprising families can learn from.

Wangene Hall '24 Headshot

Wangene Hall '24

Board Member, Global Village Foods

 

The event marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Global Family Enterprise Program, one where owners, current and future, are equipped with the tools, connections, and mindsets necessary to lead their enterprises into the future with purpose and impact.

View Photos from 2024 Owners' Day