Voices Across Generations

Family business transitions rarely look alike. Some follow a path of continued family leadership, while others look outside the family to guide the next chapter. Both journeys come with unique challenges and powerful lessons for family business leaders and advisors.

Join us for a candid conversation with two families who have navigated these pivotal moments:

• Bachman’s: Dale Bachman and Susan Bachman West will share the story of generational leadership across family branches at one of Minnesota’s most recognizable family companies.
• The Meritex Company: Chairman Paddy McNeely and CEO Tom Hotovec will reflect on the transition from family to nonfamily leadership, and what it has meant for the business, ownership and culture.

This session explores two distinct approaches to transition, highlighting the dynamics of family-to-family and family-to-nonfamily transitions. Panelists will reflect on the decision-making moments that shaped their paths, how they communicated these changes, and how generational perspectives influenced the process along the way.

Date & Time:

Wednesday, November 12, 2025
11:15 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m.

Location:

Opus Hall (MOH) 201
University of St. Thomas
20 S 10th Street
Minneapolis, MN 55403
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