The Growing Pains of Family Businesses

“Business is easy. Family business is hard,” says Charlie Bitzer, chair and CEO of ABARTA. The
relationships and dynamics within family-owned companies present distinct challenges for their
boards.

In this episode, Bitzer talks with NACD senior member engagement advisor Kait Armstrong about
the governance of family-owned businesses. They discuss the difficulties of generational transitions,
the importance of aligning culture between the board and the family, and how independent
directors can engage family leaders in tough conversations.

Host: Kait Armstrong, NACD senior member engagement advisor

Guest: Charlie Bitzer, chair and CEO of ABARTA 

Related NACD Resources:  

•  “Steering a Family Business Through Ownership Transitions”
•  “How Family Businesses Actually Make Governance Work”
•  Director Essentials: Family Business Boards and Family Dynamics

Visit nacdonline.org for further research and information.

What is BoardVision?

BoardVision™, the official podcast of NACD, engages directors, aspiring directors, CEOs, executives, and the broader business community on significant issues facing corporate boards. Produced by the Directorship magazine team, the podcast is available on the third Wednesday of every month.

In each episode, NACD speaks with industry leaders and governance experts to explore the stories and challenges of what it means to be a successful director.