Family Business Members to Convene at Continuum Family Business Conference to Discuss ‘Values Driving Growth'

Dubai – UAE: 26 August 2014 – Family businesses members from across the globe are set to gather in London for the fourth annual edition of Tharawat Family Business Forum’s Continuum Family Business Conference, which will be held from 27 to 29 August.

Family-owned businesses are the rule, not the exception, and therefore have a major impact on the global economy through their unique ability to create jobs and maintain long-term profitability. Titled ‘Values Driving Growth’, Continuum 2014 will provide a platform for real-world knowledge exchange.

With heavy competition in global markets, it has become essential for family businesses to strengthen their internal structures and adapt smart strategies that address the changing nature of the business landscape. Through multiple sessions and workshops to be held over the three-day period, attendees will learn how the synergy between governance, entrepreneurial spirit, and family office structure can solidify a family’s unique value system, and do so in a way that fosters sustained growth for years to come.

Dr. Hischam El Agamy, Founder, Tharawat said: “In today’s rapidly changing world, with strong and sometimes unexpected shaping forces, sharing ideas and experiences is one of the most helpful tools for business leaders. Continuum stimulates that very important dialogue between businesses families from all over the world and creates a space, where the different generations can have a relevant conversation about the future of business. This year we will discuss the forces that influence business sustainability and examine the impact of family values as a stabilizing factor.”

This year’s edition of Continuum will also delve into the topic of next generation leaders. Young leaders play a crucial role in ensuring the continuation of the family business legacy, and in integrating innovative solutions to counterbalance the economic forces influencing the conduct of business. A dedicated NextGen session will equip attendees with practical tools and business acumen required to thrive as a 21st century business leader.

Through the education and networking opportunities that the conference has come to be known for, Continuum 2014 is set to be a truly exciting opportunity for family-owned businesses to immerse themselves in an open atmosphere with like-minded families as they move towards a successful future.

Esteemed speakers such as: Mr. Ravi Kant, former Vice Chairman, Tata Motors, India; Prof. Stephane Garelli, Professor, IMD Business School Lausanne and Founder of IMD World Competitiveness Center, Switzerland; and HSH Prince Michael von und zu Liechtenstein, Chairman, Industrie- und Finanzkontor and Founder and Chairman of Geopolitical Information Service AG Vaduz, will exchange knowledge.

Additionally, family business leaders such as Mrs. Carole Hubscher, Chairwoman, Caran d’Ache, Switzerland; Mr. Joaquin Uriach President, Grupo Uriach, Spain; Ms. Patricia Ghany, CFO, Esau Oilfield Supplies Co. Ltd Trinidad and Tobago; Mr. Omar Safeyeldin Chairman and CEO, EGIC, Egypt; and Mrs. Cherine Debbas Moukaddem Debbas Moukaddem, Executive and Leadership Coach and Board Member, Debbas Holding, Lebanon, will explore how family businesses can achieve growth without foregoing their values.

The Continuum Family Business Conference is sponsored by Obeikan Investment Group, Saudi Arabia, and supported by the Essa Abdullah Al Ghurair Investment Group, UAE; WJ Towell, Oman; and Al Wazzan Education Services, Kuwait. The conference is held in partnership with the Tharawat magazine and has grown to become an indispensable resource in facilitating a healthy learning environment for family businesses in shaping a global community of peers.