Resolving family business disputes: HCR launches new podcast with George Bryan

Family businesses are subject to unique pressures. Without clear structures, generational tensions and questions about succession, roles and entitlement can quickly escalate into disputes.

In this exclusive podcast episode, Peter Brewer, Partner in our Dispute Resolution team, explores these dynamics with family business adviser, George Bryan

George draws on more than 30 years’ experience in his own multigenerational family business. His grandparents founded the much-loved theme park, Drayton Manor, in 1949; he worked his way up through the business and served in senior operational and board positions before the park entered administration in 2020.

Together, they discuss the shared themes that link Peter’s work as a solicitor and mediator in business disputes with George’s experience helping families avoid and resolve tensions within their businesses.

They explore issues that frequently create pressure in family-owned businesses, including:

• Generational tension around succession and family expectations
• Questions about who is “right” for leadership roles and whether to professionalise management by bringing in external expertise
• Skills gaps and overlooked development opportunities that can trigger disputes.

They also consider how legal structures such as family constitutions can help prevent conflict and discuss the importance of shareholders’ agreements, including how emotional history can be a barrier to settlement in family business disputes.

This conversation offers guidance for family-owned businesses looking to protect relationships and value, while building sustainable business practices across generations.

Watch the full episode here.