The Dubai Centre for Family Businesses, operating under Dubai Chambers, organised a training programme in Milan for participants of the third Dubai Family Business Management Programme. Additionally, the initiative took place in collaboration with the Mohammed bin Rashid Centre for Leadership Development.
The programme aims to strengthen second-tier management capabilities within family-owned enterprises. Moreover, it focuses on succession planning, governance standards and long-term continuity.
Twenty-seven representatives from family businesses attended the sessions. The training was delivered at the SDA Bocconi School of Management, providing both academic instruction and applied learning. As a result, participants gained exposure to structured governance frameworks and global operating models.
Governance, Succession and Sustainability Focus
The curriculum addressed governance structures, wealth management and family offices. Furthermore, it examined succession planning, conflict resolution and entrepreneurship within family enterprises.
Site visits formed a core component of the programme. Participants visited Lavazza, Mapei and Brembo to review operating models and sustainability strategies. In addition, the group engaged with Assolombarda to understand industrial representation frameworks.
Among the highlights were discussions with the Garrone family, owners of ERG Group. Therefore, participants examined how new generations assume leadership roles while preserving institutional legacy.
Strategic Outlook for Family Enterprises
“Family businesses are a cornerstone of the national economy and a driving force within Dubai’s business community. Strengthening the capabilities of the next generation of leaders is a strategic investment that helps ensure these businesses continue to thrive, while advancing best practices in governance and management to support national economic growth and future readiness.”
“This training programme reflects our commitment to empowering family businesses in Dubai and helping them compete globally. By equipping participants with the latest international insights and exposing them to leading global practices, we are supporting the development of agile business models that can adapt to shifting economic conditions worldwide, while also reinforcing Dubai’s position as the destination of choice for family businesses.”
“The Dubai Family Business Management Programme offers an advanced training platform designed to empower the next generation of family business leaders in Dubai, by equipping them with modern leadership insights and decision-making tools to further enhance their readiness to lead with efficiency, and ensure the sustainability of this vital economic sector.”
“The training programme offers a comprehensive educational experience blending theory and practice. It leverages the world-class academic expertise in the SDA Bocconi School of Management in Milan, alongside direct engagement with Italian family business leaders, allowing participants to learn about success stories and leading business models. This allows them to develop innovative solutions that contribute to the sustainable growth of their businesses.”
The initiative aligns with broader efforts to strengthen governance and institutional resilience among family-owned enterprises. Consequently, the programme supports leadership transitions while reinforcing long-term economic contribution.
