Re-Imagining Relationships for Families in Business, by David Bork
Introduction
David Bork, a pioneer in family business consulting, states that four pillars serve as the “bedrock” of any successful family business network. This conceptual framework establishes a solid foundation for successful family-run enterprises. These pillars represent the core areas that families must manage to balance complex personal relationships with professional business requirements.
Re-Imagining Relationships For Families In Business
Four essential pillars form the foundation of lasting family business success. When these pillars are intentionally built and sustained, they support the continuity of both family relationships and business ownership across generations. This series provides the tools, frameworks, and guidance needed to strengthen these pillars and build long-term resilience within your family enterprise.
About David Bork
David Bork founded the original Aspen Family Business Group, LLC, in 1987 when he brought together Leslie Dashew, Sam Lane, Dennis Jaffe, and Kathy Wiseman to implement an early program for families in business in Aspen, Colorado. David was a pioneer in the field of advising business-owning families, authoring one of the first books in the field, Family Business, Risky Business.
David Bork was an industry pioneer. During his long and productive career, he authored books, presented at conferences, retreats, and universities, and served as an advisor to families in business. The material in Four Pillars was originally part of an online training course, one of David’s last major projects before his passing in 2025.
During his career, David Bork worked with more than 500 family businesses around the world. He consulted with families facing difficult issues or seeking assistance in addressing the challenges of running a family-owned business. David had a proven track record of providing effective solutions that contributed to the success and continued growth of family businesses of all sizes. Utilizing his unique style, keen insights, and thorough understanding of complex family business matters, David Bork consistently received high praise from the families he helped. He was known for his modest, friendly, and approachable style and always encouraged his clients to take the long view in their business planning strategies.
