Message from the Country Manager 2020 - Winter Edition
What resilience we have, as families, as businesses owned and operated by families and as a Nation built on family values.
As I write this message due to the unprecedented COVID-19 situation, New Zealand is under some strain due to the Level 2 and Level 3 (Auckland) trading restrictions. As frustrating as this time has been (and may continue to be), I know the majority of New Zealanders are ready to do what is necessary to get this virus under control and are staying positive so we can get our lives, our friendships, our community and the economy moving again. It's the kiwi-way to move forward with our "She’ll be right" attitude - backed up with some strong business planning to see 2020 out!
COVID-19 is playing havoc with business operations however, we have no doubt that most family businesses are set up for success with long term strategies, vision and with many multi generational businesses going through difficult periods of recession. This is the time to look out for each other and buy from New Zealand owned and operated family businesses and I encourage you to make conscious purchasing decisions.
We are also here to support you during this time (and beyond) by offering free webinars and social interaction via our Facebook and LinkedIn pages to allow members to engage online. We have also moved our education programs like the Planning Succession for Family Business Course online during this time.
I am excited to announce that next month we will be starting back up our face-to-face program with a free Family Reunion event scheduled for 15th October 2020 hosted by Karen Fistonich, her family and the Villa Maria team at the Villa Maria Estate in Manukau, Auckland 4.30pm -7.00pm. This event will include wine tasting and a presentation from Karen Fistonich, 2nd generation family member- we hope you can join us. Click here to register you and your family business team.
In addition to the above, FBNZ recently announced the launch of the 20/21 Forum Group Program with our inaugural group facilitated by Deb Shepherd kicking off in October and a new online Women in Family Business Forum Group Program in partnership with Family Business Australia led by Susanne Bransgrove, Women in Family Business Pty Ltd. To find our more about these programs please view here.
Most recently, FBNZ entered into discussions and agreed on a new National Gold Sponsor, EWM Group led by Brad Scott and we welcome him and his team to our network. Partnerships play an important role in driving the value proposition that we can offer members. We take the decision on who we partner with very seriously as we want to ensure that we work with likeminded partners that offer true value and support to our members. There are limited opportunities, so if you wish to find out more about partnering with FBNZ - please reach out to me via email or phone.
For now, I wish you and your family business every success for the coming months, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on 0212 445 446 or noswell@familybusiness.org.nz and I hope to see you in October.
Many thanks,
Nicole Oswell
Country Manager, Family Business New Zealand
