This presentation explores the challenges family businesses face in sustaining their legacy, with only a small percentage successfully transitioning across generations. It highlights shifting generational priorities, such as Millennials opting for innovation over tradition, contributing to a decline in first-generation transitions. Drawing from personal experience, the presentation emphasizes the critical pillars of succession: core values, innovation, leadership, and communication. Attendees will learn how shared values drive growth and how innovation ensures adaptability in changing markets. Finally, the presentation underscores the importance of open communication and reframing generational transitions as opportunities, fostering both business resilience and strong family relationships.
Overview
About the Speaker
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John Cook
Dole Refrigerating CompanyBiographyJohn is the President of the Dole Family of Companies, a family-owned enterprise in Lewisburg, TN. Since joining in 1992 and becoming President in 2009, he has driven growth through innovation, technology integration, and ISO certifications. A Belmont University MBA graduate, John enjoys surfing, family time with his wife Rene’ of 30 years, and their three daughters, embracing life with enthusiasm and a sense of adventure.
Pricing & Registration
| Sessions | Member Price | Non-Member Price |
|---|---|---|
| Individual Sessions | $195 | $220 |
| Workshops | $195 | $220 |
| Best Value Full Conference (5-10 Sessions) |
$195 | $220 |
| Sessions | Member Price | Non-Member Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Session | $112.50 | $125 |
| 2 Sessions | $202.50 | $225 |
| 3 Sessions | $270 | $300 |
| 4-8 Sessions | $405 | $450 |
| Sessions | Member Price | Non-Member Price |
|---|---|---|
| Half-Day Workshops (W4, W11) | FREE | FREE |
| One-Hour Sessions (W12, W13, W14, W18) | FREE | FREE |
| Two-Hour Sessions (W16, W17) | $50 | $75 |
| Weld-Ed Conference (W5) | $50 | $75 |
| Half-Day Sessions (W2, W3, W7, W10) | $345 | $430 |
| Full-Day Sessions (W6, W8, W9) | $565 | $665 |
| Two-Day Session (W1) | $795 | $895 |
| Professional Program (W15) | $395 | $495 |
* Non-member price for AWS Welding Full-Day Sessions only includes a one-year AWS Individual Membership.