In this post, Juan Antonio Acedo MBA 2026 explains the activities of IESE's Family Business Club and highlights a conference the club members attended at Harvard Business School.
My background
My name is Juan Antonio Acedo, I was working in a company my family had invested in before I started my MBA last year. I joined the company as an M&A analyst, and over time, I became Chief of Staff, joining the executive committee and managing several areas within the corporate department. It wasn’t an easy path, but it allowed me to see a lot in a short period—how strategic decisions are made, the responsibility of running a company, and the balance between long-term vision and adapting to change.
The company operates across sectors such as efficient housing, senior and healthcare, water, renewable energies, sustainable fuels, and infrastructure for the decarbonization of the planet. Being part of this environment has given me exposure to different industries and the chance to understand how companies evolve over time.
I will always be grateful to my father for giving me this opportunity, something I know is not easily available to everyone.
Why IESE? A Unique Approach to Leadership and Business
IESE stood out to me because of its strong values, deep understanding of family business, and exceptional global network. More than just an academic institution, IESE shapes leaders who think beyond short-term results and focus on long-term sustainability, integrity, and responsibility. The emphasis on values-based leadership is something increasingly rare in business education, and it was a key factor in my decision to enroll.
Another reason is IESE’s focus on family business, which is deeply embedded in the curriculum. Unlike in some markets as the United States where liquidity and fast-moving transactions often lead businesses to be sold rather than passed down, in other places as Europe or Latin America, family businesses remain a core part of the economy, requiring a different strategic approach. IESE understands this difference and provides the tools to preserve, transform, and grow multi-generational companies in a sustainable way.
Finally, IESE’s network is unparalleled, especially in Spanish-speaking markets, where I see my professional future. Relationships and trust are critical in business, and the IESE community extends far beyond the classroom. The alumni network is one of the most engaged in the world, with a genuine willingness to help and collaborate.
For me, IESE represents the perfect combination of principles, strategy, and connections, all within an environment that challenges you to grow both personally and professionally.
The Global Families in Business Conference at HBS
This year, along with other members of the IESE Family Business Club, we had the opportunity to attend the Global Families in Business Conference at Harvard Business School, an incredible event that explored the challenges and opportunities faced by family businesses.
Throughout the conference, key topics were discussed, such as succession planning, ownership and management relations, the importance of strong governance structures, and the role of family offices in preserving business assets. There were also discussions on how the next generation can drive innovation without losing the company’s essence, the impact of social media on corporate image, and the need to professionalize management while staying true to the values that have driven business growth.
A night at Mariel with friends from the club, alongside conference attendees from various business schools.
But the most valuable part of the event wasn’t the talks—it was the people we met. Connecting with other business families and sharing experiences made us realize that, in the end, we are all facing similar challenges. It was an experience that brought our club even closer together and reinforced the importance of fostering initiatives like this.
As in any long-standing company, change, succession, and long-term decision-making can be complex processes. That’s why, in our club, we have a signature phrase: “Trust the process.” It serves as a reminder that things take time, that every step matters, and that, in the end, if you do things right, results will come. For those of us who attended the conference, this phrase now holds a special meaning, and I know that when they read it, a smile will instantly appear on their faces.
The IESE Family Business Club: Community and Legacy
The IESE Family Business Club is a truly special club. Most of us will be the future leaders of our businesses, and we have a huge responsibility: to preserve the wealth that previous generations built with great effort and to grow the business sustainably so that it remains viable for future generations.
We meet every two weeks for networking events, where we share ideas and explore collaboration opportunities among families. We also bring in guest speakers, who share how they have structured their companies, how they manage the relationship between ownership and management, and the lessons they have learned along the way.
An insightful session with Banyan Global partners on family business strategy and governance.
Additionally, if there is one thing I would highly recommend to anyone involved in managing a company, it is taking the LAND elective course taught by Professor Liechtenstein. It’s an incredible experience. It’s not a course where you work on a business case; you are the case. Your situation is analyzed, and you receive advice from experts who have gone through very similar experiences. This makes it one of the most valuable courses for those considering a future in running a family business.
What’s Next: The Future of the Club
This year has been amazing, but next year will be even bigger. We are working on major initiatives that will take the IESE Family Business Club to the next level, more details to come!
I want to give a special thanks to the current presidents of the Family Business Club, who have played a key role in driving the club forward and have given us the opportunity to lead initiatives like this. Their leadership, vision, and dedication have made a tremendous impact, and it’s an absolute privilege to work alongside them.
I also want to acknowledge the incredible work of our entire team, because next year will bring many exciting projects, and we have an exceptional group to make them happen.
Written by Juan Antonio Acedo, MBA 2026
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