CEO of Family Office

Our client is a private investment company wholly owned by members of one family.  In addition to its various property, private equity and quoted investments, the company holds a majority shareholding in a substantial, dynamic and highly successful trading company based in Asia and operating in 18 countries throughout the Asia Pacific region. Indeed, the family has a great history and heritage in this industry, going back to the early 19^th century.

With the current generational transition being planned for later in 2021, when the current Chair will retire and be replaced in this role by the present CEO, it is expected that the company’s business interests will continue to evolve towards more sustainable and impact-driven investing – something that is important to the next generation of the Family.  While this shift in focus is very much at an early stage, it will be a key part of the new CEO’s role.  As well as listed and unlisted investments, the business may also in future look to invest in Private Equity funds if they are focussing on sustainability, all with the underlying objective of protecting and growing value for the family and future generations. This value creation will come from capital gains through the acquisition and disposal of investments in businesses and other asset classes, together with income generation from, and organic growth of, the company’s longer-term assets.

The CEO will manage all aspects of the day-to-day “corporate” management of the company, including overseeing its financial affairs. They will have the vitally important role of representing the business on the Board of its major investment, including attendance at board meetings in Asia (generally three times p.a.), and of providing corporate finance and related advice to its senior executive team. Responsibilities will also include the management and development of the company’s private equity investments as well as working with the managers of its portfolio of quoted investments.

Important attributes for the CEO will firstly be a broad financial and legal understanding and knowledge of business generally. Whilst not essential, an established network in the Scottish advisory community and the UK Private Equity marketplace would be beneficial. What is key however, over and above professional skills and experience, is honesty and integrity. This is a unique opportunity but will only be successful if a high level of mutual trust is built with the company’s shareholders and if there is a clear match with the family values of unity, supportiveness, fairness, social responsibility, privacy, and positive investment. An empathy with and understanding of the dynamics associated with a family-owned business will clearly also be fundamental.

The CEO should also be a free thinker who is capable of working independently or with a small team and who is a great communicator with an ability to write and present effectively to different audiences, both internally and externally.  They should have a confident, relaxed demeanour – optimistic and positive yet with a healthy dose of realism. In effect, a healthily balanced ego, with an inner confidence that will be admired and appreciated by the Family.

Ideally candidates will have held senior positions in private business, investment companies, professional services firms or equivalent, and will have strong financial acumen. They could also be a CFO who has had wider general management and investment experience.

For further information please contact Willie Finlayson via willie@fwbparkbrown.com or by phone 0131 539 7087.

To apply please send your CV to enquiries@fwbparkbrown.com