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Family firm research has shown that the cooperative resolution of conflict between the incumbent entrepreneur and his successor is crucial for the survival of the family firm. Dispute resolution research suggests that a third party acting as mediator can provide valuable support to their efforts. Father to Son synthesizes insights from both lines of research to propose when, and how, mediation can contribute to the resolution of family firm succession conflicts. It offers a clear framework to guide family firm members, as well as their advisors, through the succession process.

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1. Introduction.- 2. The Three Dilemmas of Succession.- 3. The Three Dimensions of Succession Conflict.- 4. The Three Elements of Third Party Intervention.- 5. Conclusion.- Appendix A: Interview Partners.- Appendix B: Questionnaires.- Bibliography.

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Attorney Dr. Georg Berkel specializes in the negotiation process. Previously he worked for Siemens in Germany and Israel. Dr. Berkel has been practicing and teaching negotiations in more than 20 countries. He earned an MBA at IESE and a Ph.D. at the University of St. Gallen. He is a visiting lecturer at the University of Munich, regular visiting scholar at the Kellogg School of Management, and professor at IUBH. Visit http://www.negotiationconsulting.com for more information.

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