Family businesses

Leadership must continuously and seamlessly align with an organisation’s ambitions and today’s challenges. It demands more than just the right experience – it’s about having the right leader in the right organisation, at the right time.

How can we help you?

Executive Search Interim Management Leadership & Transformation The School of Leadership

What expertise do you want to pursue?

Private Equity Family businesses CFOs Care Energy transition Sustainability Circularity Food Horticulture & agriculture NGOs Education Civil society organisations Software, IT & Tech Enabled Services Platforms High tech

Changemakers in family businesses

Leadership is crucial for family businesses striving to achieve their goals while safeguarding the continuity of their operations. Success in a family business is not measured by short-term profits, but by sustainable growth and long-term stability.

At Ebbinge, we recognise the unique challenges family businesses face. We understand that the primary role of leadership in these businesses is to ensure continuity, while honouring the family's values. The right leadership is vital—not only to support the current generation at the helm but also to secure the future of the business for the next generation.

Our network

Ebbinge has partnered with over 250 family businesses across all sectors. Our network includes more than 2,000 leaders with the right experience and a strong affinity for family businesses. Key areas of expertise in high demand are governance, sustainability, succession planning, next-generation development, and external leadership.

Well-structured governance is crucial for keeping the business running smoothly. Leaders need to balance business interests with family values. This involves making strategic decisions and ensuring the right succession, both within the company and externally. If there is no internal successor, it is crucial to find an external leader who respects the family culture and can continue leading the business.

Succession planning is a key issue for family businesses. Guiding the next generation within the company requires careful consideration of both business and familial values. If there is no suitable successor, it is crucial to find an external leader who can serve as a trusted confidant for the family and ensure the continuity of the business.

External leaders play a vital role in family businesses. They are not only responsible for the daily operations but also act as a trusted advisor to the family. Finding an external leader who aligns with the values of the business and the family is critical for long-term success.

The right leadership is essential not only to support the generations currently at the helm, but also to entrust the future of the business to the next generation.

Our clients

Collaborating with a wide range of clients enhances our position in the family business market. By combining in-depth market knowledge, a strong network, and expertise, we create lasting value.

Meet the team

Our team of experienced professionals, with expertise in family businesses, finds and develops leaders who determine the right course with adaptability and determination.

Joost ‘t Hooft, Vincent Timmers, Anne-Marije van Goch

Our people