We’re sitting down for a succession planning conversation with a lawyer and accountant at the table

Succession planning is complicated territory for any business, but perhaps more so in farming with families at the core of most operations.

It's not just relationships and family legacies that hinge on effective succession planning, it also plays a critical role in building strategic foresight, sustainability and continuity into a business. 

Succession is delicate stuff, so we thought we'd draw on the experience of accountant Chloe Arthur and lawyer Kirsty Evans to learn what can make the process more positive for farming families.

So, pull up a chair and make yourself comfy, to hear their tips on navigating those difficult conversations... and the key parts of the process to 'get right' to foster trust and collaboration throughout the succession journey.

Takeaways

• Open communication, flexibility, and goodwill are the foundations of effective succession planning 
• It's important to understand the differing needs of each generation 
• It's essential to build a team of external professionals to support decision making
• Succession planning is an ongoing process that constantly evolves with family dynamics
• Fair doesn't necessarily mean equal 
• Delaying the transfer of farm assets is one of the least effective strategies for succession

Chapters

00:00 Breaking the taboo of succession planning in agriculture

08:53 Balancing optimism and realism 

11:56 Generational Shifts: understanding the needs of each generation and family values
17:56 Successful succession stories: learning from others' experience

24:07 Navigating difficult conversations: the importance of open communication

30:00 Structuring family farms as businesses

42:06 Preparing for a return to the family farm

52:04 Ongoing discussions: being nimble with your plan and evolving with the family unit

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