When it comes to engaging successfully with the next generation in a family business, plenty has been discussed around their priorities, changing value system, purpose drive, and involving them in the business interests. Ultimately, all of this is necessary to secure family business succession and at its core, this usually involves direct and open communication between the generations, clarity around business goals, and working towards a collective dream that can help to build alignment. However, the factors playing a role in alignment and effect engagement are constantly changing. With global interest growing in areas of sustainable development, and in particular climate change, there’s been an increase of cases that demonstrate there’s a strong disconnect between the goals and ambitions of different generations.
One recent example is the resolved feud that took place amongst the Murdoch family
In July 2020, James Murdoch, son of media mogul Rupert Murdoch, resigned from the board of directors of News Corp, citing “disagreements over certain editorial content published by the company’s news outlets and certain other strategic decisions.” His departure followed years of visible tension over climate coverage and political positioning, particularly after the devastating bushfires in Australia.
These disagreements over values ultimately translated into economics. In September 2025, Rupert Murdoch struck a $3.3bn settlement that bought out James and his sisters Elisabeth and Prudence, each receiving a $1.1bn payout to exit the family trust. The move secured Lachlan Murdoch’s sole control of the empire and resolved decades of uncertainty.
