“Family Business” Project Supports Succession in Family-Owned Companies Across Generations
The “Family Business” project supports family-owned companies in successfully navigating generational business succession. Its aim is to help second-generation entrepreneurs prepare for the challenges of today’s dynamic environment by engaging with industry experts, fostering an entrepreneurial community, and contributing to the creation of a sustainable national economy.
The initiative is led by KBC Group and UBB, and this year’s edition is held in partnership with Manager Magazine. Alexandra Mircheva, CEO and Chair of the Board of VM Finance Group and publisher of Manager Magazine, has once again participated in the initiative. Over the years, she has supported it by delivering training sessions, actively moderating discussions, and representing the first generation of entrepreneurs. This year’s program also featured a special appearance by Peter Roebben, Country Team Chair of KBC Group in Bulgaria and CEO of UBB.
A key element of the platform is the NextGEN Academy, which targets young entrepreneurs who are stepping into leadership roles and taking part in strategic decision-making. Through a series of seminars and lectures, the academy connects the next generation of business leaders with seasoned experts, covering topics such as sustainability, strategic growth, leadership, and employer branding.
The third edition of the initiative is once again moderated by Alexandra Mircheva, whose business is a prime example of a successful Bulgarian family company with international competitiveness. At an informal meeting with the young entrepreneurs, Ms. Mircheva shared:
“We are a family-owned company, much like yours. This year marks 30 years since the founding of our group’s first company. Today, the group includes nine companies operating across various sectors and geographies. The challenges we face — together with your parents — are often similar, and while we may solve them in different ways, we always follow a strategic vision for business growth and remain true to our family values.”
The event featured next-generation business entrepreneurs, including Kristiyana Vassileva, representing the second generation in the management of her family company; Hristofor Hristov, who is already leading the family business; and Ivan Ivanov, a third-generation entrepreneur.
Read more about the project in the September issue of Manager magazine:
