In this conversation, Brian Adams and Amy Beahm delve into the critical yet often overlooked role of the controller in family offices. They discuss the distinctions between single family offices (SFOs) and multi-family offices (MFOs), the challenges of tech implementation, and the evolving responsibilities of controllers. Amy shares insights on navigating stakeholder expectations, the importance of professional development, and the future skills needed in family office management. The discussion highlights the complexities of financial reporting, investment management, and the necessity for effective communication within family offices.
To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.
This conversation explores the evolving role of Chief Operating Officers (COOs) within family offices, highlighting their unique responsibilities compared to traditional firms. The panelists share their personal journeys to becoming COOs, discuss the impact of technology and governance structures, and emphasize the importance of risk management and data ownership. Networking and collaboration are also identified as key components for success in the family office space, along with insights into career paths for aspiring COOs.
This episode was recorded on May 19, 2025.
To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.
In this conversation, guest Rosaura Gil discusses her transition from being an HR director in a family office to providing fractional HR services to ultra-high-net-worth individuals and family offices. She highlights the importance of HR in family offices, addressing misconceptions about the need for HR support, and the risks associated with not having proper HR protocols in place. The discussion covers cost control, compliance with labor laws, onboarding best practices, termination protocols, and the balance between personal and professional boundaries in the family office environment. Rosaura emphasizes the role of HR as family offices become more institutionalized and the necessity for clear policies and documentation to mitigate risks.
To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.
In this conversation, Craig Stephens discusses the challenges of addressing the 'now what' factor in estate planning, the importance of collaboration with legal counsel, and best practices for multi-generational wealth planning. Craig advocates for designing plans that beneficiaries can actively engage with, fostering open communication and transparency. He also highlights the need for a mindset shift among advisors to embrace a more comprehensive view of client relationships, ultimately redefining success in estate planning beyond mere wealth accumulation.
To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.
In this roundtable discussion, our guests explore the role of private trust companies (PTCs) in the family office ecosystem. Topics include the problems PTCs solve, how they enhance governance and control, jurisdictional considerations, fiduciary risk management, and the growing demand for tailored trust structures. The conversation also covers best practices in governance, human capital, and future trends shaping the next generation of family governance.
This episode was recorded on June 9, 2025.
To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.
In this conversation, Suzy Riedman shares her experiences and insights on inheriting wealth, navigating family dynamics, and the importance of communication in managing generational wealth. She discusses the emotional complexities of receiving an inheritance, the necessity of setting clear expectations, and the role of third-party mediation in family discussions about money. Suzy emphasizes the importance of proactive conversations about wealth with children and the need for young inheritors to find their own purpose and identity.
To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.
For more information on Suzy's children's books, please visit https://familywealthdynamics.com/books
In this conversation, Aaron Abrahms and Jared Feldman join Brian Adams to discuss outsourcing vs. insourcing family office services. They explore the evolution of family offices, the key components of their services, and the importance of philanthropy and family dynamics. The discussion also highlights the challenges of talent acquisition in the family office space and the various investment strategies families can adopt. The experts emphasize the need for families to regularly reevaluate their service models to adapt to changing circumstances and ensure effective wealth management.
To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.
In this conversation, Brian Adams and Sofia Ziegler delve into the complexities of domestic recruiting, particularly in the context of family offices. They discuss the roles and responsibilities within domestic staffing, the challenges of finding qualified candidates, and the impact of compensation trends on the industry. Ziegler emphasizes the importance of communication and structure in family offices, as well as the need for flexibility and adaptability in candidates. The conversation concludes with insights on niche talent acquisition and the value of expert guidance in the field.
To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.
In this conversation, Brian Adams, Todd Kellerman, and Tim Wray discuss the landscape of family office investing, particularly in private equity and direct investments. They explore the motivations behind family offices' investment strategies, the importance of governance, and the common pitfalls that families face in direct investing. The discussion emphasizes the need for families to leverage their unique advantages, build robust investment programs, and maintain a strategic focus on liquidity and governance to ensure long-term success.
To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.
Today's panel discussion delves into the intricacies of family offices and private trust companies, exploring their definitions, the reasons for their growing popularity, and the importance of jurisdiction selection. The panel discusses the differences between regulated and unregulated trust companies, the role of governance, and the legal frameworks that guide these entities. They also address the challenges of navigating conflicts of interest, liability concerns for directors, and the best practices for engaging family members in the governance process. The discussion emphasizes the need for a strong advisory team and the importance of communication within families to ensure the success of private trust companies.
This episode was recorded on June 2, 2025.
To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.
In this conversation, Brian Adams and Josh Chapman discuss gaming as an investment opportunity, particularly from the perspective of family offices. They explore the current state of the gaming market, the dynamics between the US and China, and the shifting attitudes of family offices towards gaming investments. The discussion also delves into the challenges faced by e-sports, the predictability of cash flows in gaming, and the impact of geopolitical factors on the industry. Emerging trends such as the movement towards web gaming and the role of AI in game development are also highlighted, showcasing the potential for growth and innovation in the gaming sector.
To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.
In this conversation, Warren Finkel discusses the changing landscape of cybersecurity threats facing family offices. He emphasizes the importance of understanding these threats, the need for outsourcing cybersecurity functions, and the critical role of human capital in maintaining security awareness. Finkel highlights common vulnerabilities, the mindset of complacency, and the necessity of modern cybersecurity practices. He also addresses the importance of insurance and proactive risk assessments to safeguard family assets against potential cyber threats.
To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.
This conversation explores the role of Chief Learning Officers (CLOs) in family offices, emphasizing the importance of learning in wealth transfer and family dynamics. The panel discusses the balance between qualitative and quantitative learning, the engagement of the next generation, and the customization of learning programs. They also touch on the impact of technology and the future trends in family learning, highlighting the need for personal connection and values alignment in educational approaches.
This episode was recorded on May 19, 2025.
To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.
In this conversation, Brian Adams and Sasha Lund discuss the evolving dynamics of wealth transfer, particularly focusing on the increasing representation of women in family businesses and offices. They explore the importance of multigenerational collaboration, the cultural differences in family office structures, and the challenges faced by women in leadership roles. The discussion also touches on the service provider industry and the need for emotional intelligence in leadership, as well as the future trends in family businesses amidst technological advancements.
To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.
In this conversation, Brian Adams and Kate Bright discuss security, particularly focusing on the convergence of digital and physical security. Kate shares insights from her extensive experience in the family office sector and highlights the importance of proactive risk management strategies. The discussion emphasizes the need for emotional security as a critical component of overall risk resilience and the necessity of building comprehensive risk protocols. Kate also addresses the importance of supplier due diligence in the security industry, advocating for a human-centric approach to risk management.
To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.
In this conversation, Brian Adams and Max Bevilacqua delve into the complexities of family systems and their implications for family offices. They explore the importance of understanding family dynamics, mapping relationships, and the role of triangulation in conflict resolution. The discussion emphasizes the need for effective communication, trust, and cultural fit within family offices, as well as the significance of measuring success beyond financial returns. Max shares insights on self-awareness, personal growth, and the challenges of navigating professional relationships in the context of family dynamics.
To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.
This conversation delves into the challenges and best practices surrounding technology in family offices. Today's guests discuss the importance of roadmapping, internal governance, RFP processes, and the implementation of technology solutions. They emphasize the need for stakeholder engagement and the balance between co-sourcing and outsourcing. The discussion also highlights the future of family office technology, including the impact of AI and APIs, and the importance of maintaining good vendor relationships.
To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.
This conversation focuses on the challenges of talent acquisition, the importance of culture fit, and the implications of the great wealth transfer. The panel discusses the dynamics of investment management, compensation structures, and the role of technology and cybersecurity in family offices. They emphasize the need for education and effective communication within families to navigate these complexities.
This episode was recorded on May 19, 2025.
To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.
In this conversation, Robert Gauntt shares his journey from a college baseball player to a seasoned investment professional. He discusses the evolution of the Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) industry, the importance of building a differentiated multi-family office, and the critical factors families should consider when choosing a multi-family office. He emphasizes the significance of leveraging expertise in alternative investments, navigating market volatility, and the lessons learned from institutional investing. He also highlights the vibrant investment landscape in Texas and the importance of risk management and rebalancing strategies in investment portfolios.
To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.
In this conversation, Brian Adams and Joel Goschalk explore the differences between family offices in the US and the UK. They discuss the scale of operations, investment dynamics, cultural differences in networking, and the role of third-party services. Joel shares his experiences as an expat in the US, providing insights into the job market and offering advice for UK professionals considering a move to the States. The discussion highlights the unique characteristics of family offices in both regions and the evolving landscape of wealth management.
To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.