“The translating of our model and our culture to be relevant to the next generation, I think that’s relevant to the skill set I bring to the table.” – Danielle Kanengoni
We’re so thrilled to have been profiled in The Globe and Mail today by Saira Peesker in her article, “More women are taking over family businesses, but can face added scrutiny in the role.”
Danielle talks to Saira about the dynamics of taking over a family business as a female leader, alongside the brilliant Julia Chung and Liz Mcbeth. We love this excerpt:
Julia Chung, a certified family enterprise advisor, explains that success in these transitions often hinges on a combination of long-term planning and open communication within the family. She notes many families are increasingly open to passing businesses on to women but says those that haven’t kept up with social changes over the years – such as acceptance of diversity and women’s empowerment – are less likely to reflect those changes in their companies.
“Families are inherently traditional,” says Ms. Chung, a board member at Family Enterprise Canada. She notes male-dominated industries – “which are most of them” – can pose particular challenges for female successors and those who are queer or gender-diverse. “If you aren’t fitting into that traditional role, people feel uncomfortable, and they might pass over you.”
