This course introduces students to the widespread, but complex, phenomenon of family enterprises. The course covers important themes relevant for starting, managing and growing successful family enterprises. Family enterprises represent the most common form of business organisation across the world; both among established firms and new ventures. Family-owned businesses dominate most industries, and they can be both small and medium-sized enterprises and large companies. Founders and founding families own many of the largest private companies (e.g. Ikea) and they are controlling owners of well-known publicly listed companies such as H&M, Ford, LVMH, Volkswagen, Walmart and Samsung. Indeed, many of the world's most common brands are family enterprises.
The aim of the course is to introduce concepts and tools that can enhance students' understanding of important perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing family enterprises. The course includes many practical learning situations with case studies and live case guest lectures that illustrate and allow for an in-depth understanding of family firms that have maintained and developed their growth and entrepreneurial spirit. The course blends examples and experiences from a Nordic setting with an international focus and outlook.
The course is particularly designed for students who are interested in working in family firms (e.g., as entrepreneurs, managers, owners) or with family firms (e.g., as advisors, consultants, board members, bankers) or who have a family enterprise background and has, or might, enter the family's business (e.g., next generation family owners).
See interview with Prof. Matthias Nordqvist.
Course Date & Time
Tuesdays and Thursdays 5.15 pm to 7.00 pm or 8.00 pm (Central European Time). No class on March 28, April 2, April 30, May 2, May 9 (due to holidays).