Succession planning

Talking about succession planning isn’t always easy, whether it’s with family or your wider team. That’s why we’re here to help you start those conversations today.

From the basics of getting the discussions started, to seeing things from different perspectives, we’ve got tips and real-life examples to help you tackle sensitive issues before they turn into bigger problems.

• Success requires honest conversations
• The best time to start the conversation was yesterday, so if your business doesn’t have a succession plan, don’t put it off
• Succession isn’t just about tax and inheritance, it’s also about people and making sure everyone understands the plan
• Be clear about your goals and expectations – personally and for the business – before encouraging others to share theirs
• Challenges are normal but not insurmountable – they can be managed through clear, calm communication and patience
• External support e.g. from an adviser and/or farming peer, is available and, in many cases, is invaluable
• Build a community you trust and share experiences with each other
• Businesses with positive succession stories often share similar advice: start early, be open and get support

The Succession Alliance is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to championing a progressive, inclusive approach to farm succession.

They focus on exploring options, providing a voice for families navigating this journey, and promoting best practices that benefit the family, the individual and the business.

Their website provides both free and paid-for support including their ‘succession families forum’ – a 6-month programme to help navigate succession.

Our ‘Discuss the undiscussabull’ activity with Elaine Froese includes videos covering mediation, seeing things from different perspectives, divorce, setting expectations and starting conversations.

The workbook is still available to order, but when its gone, its gone.

If you feel isolated or uncertain about the future, sharing the problem with others can help.

We’ve summarised some tips for speaking to:

• Your family
• Your employees
• A financial expert
• Your accountant
• A consultant

Learn how to create a long-term plan for labour in your business.

With advice on how to promote people, the benefits of workforce and contingency planning, how to manage resignations and how to prepare for a business handover.

If you’re facing challenges, there are resources and charities ready to help with everything from finances to mental health.