Women standing tall as owner-managers

Due to the absence of men in the family, widows and only daughters have taken charge of family businesses. They were often only appointed because of the lack of an alternative, and in this way the huge mistake of undervaluing talent because of gender was perpetuated. 

I know what I am talking about. My grandmother took over the family business when my grandfather was forced into exile. My mother, an only child, then inherited and led the company. Neither my sister nor I continued with the business, although my mother thought I would, even though I was the youngest.  

We can still encounter the absurd inheritance of years of inequality. Even today, in the 21st century, I still regrettably hear the phrase: "she works in the company, helping her husband in the office". Glass ceilings limit the progress of the most valuable people. 

As a lecturer and consultant on family business strategy and management, I know many sisters, wives, sisters-in-law, and mothers who play this secondary role behind closed doors and in the shadow of men who have naturally inherited leadership – without needing to earn it and without necessarily being good at it.  

Fortunately, things are changing. Slowly, but surely. I increasingly meet women who occupy management or co-management positions – and they do so with skills at least as remarkable as those of their male relatives.  

It has already been said that women claim the right to not necessarily be better, but to be as mediocre as their male counterparts.  

Winds of change

In academia, the winds of change are blowing. In 2022, the Esade Program for Owner-Managers that I have been directing for years had more women than men in the classroom. Many of these women were members of second or third generations who were preparing to take over from the founders, almost all of them men. These women are suitably trained, ambitious, courageous, and aware of the professional career they have decided to pursue. They are willing to defend their space in the company and at family meals (no easy task).  

Those in the know say that female leadership differs from male leadership. Men hunt alone, focused on the target, competitive, and effective – but solitary. In contrast, women integrate, listen, dialogue and place great value on rigor and consensus. 

That is why mixed teams are stronger and more effective. Just like in life. Anyone who cannot see this will end up being left behind.  

It is time for all of us to accept that talent is genderless, and we must see this change as a huge opportunity to grow as entrepreneurs and as individuals. The result is better companies and a better environment.  

Managing a family business is difficult and you need to carry as many weapons as you can. Knowledge, soft skills, global vision, and much more is available in our Program for Owner-Managers.