Why it is never too early to start tough task of succession planning: Jonathan Edgeley

I’ve been fortunate enough to work alongside world-class business leaders who recognise the importance of addressing the individual needs of family members to maintain a smooth transition of power from one generation to the next.

Years spent working with high-net-worth (HNW) families from around the world means I’ve witnessed first-hand the delicate negotiations that surround the succession planning process.

Ensuring that these key personal relationships survive the process unscathed requires real nuance and diplomacy, and that’s where our expert team of professionals step in to offer support and guidance.

I’m an advocate of addressing problems before they become debilitating issues, both personally and professionally. In my experience, it’s never too early to start the process of succession planning; we know that early interventions can have a transformative impact on the health and wellbeing of those who are embarking on a period of significant change.

Having spent the earlier part of my career in London before relocating to my hometown of Sheffield, I recognised the paucity of services available to HNW families in the north.

Our stunning location in the Peak District is a real draw to those seeking a discreet and tranquil space in which to hold these pivotal gatherings, and our guests frequently comment on the calming and restorative properties the beautiful countryside lends to the proceedings.

I’m a huge believer in the power of nature, and that’s why our family retreats are so popular with city-dwellers looking for a change of scenery. Connecting with the outdoors as well as other members of their family has a transformative effect on the families we work with.

Communication is at the heart of any family business, and never more so than during succession planning. Part of my role involves putting together a hand-picked team of clinical psychologists, therapists, and business coaches to facilitate open dialogue between individuals. I work with families prior to their stay to ensure they’re paired with the perfect people - because each family is unique. In the words of Tolstoy, "All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.”

Getting to the root of this unhappiness is something I’m passionate about - whether it is mental health conditions including depression and anxiety, neurodivergent conditions such as ADHD or the legacy burdens of trauma - I founded Montrose with the aim of helping people in their most challenging times.

Our role is to provide support to those who are embroiled in what can be an emotionally fraught time, and to ensure that both the family and the business thrive when the reins are passed on to the next generation.

Jonathan Edgeley is CEO and founder of Montrose Retreats