The American University of Beirut – Mediterraneo (AUB Mediterraneo) is organizing a one-day conference on the topic “The Development of Family Businesses” on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at the AUB Mediterraneo Amphitheater in Paphos.
The workshop aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and business experience, by exploring key issues, such as the growth of family businesses and the challenges they face along the way.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
According to a 2025 analysis by KPMG Cyprus, only 30% of family businesses manage to successfully transition to the second generation, while just 10% to 12% make it to the third. Therefore, succession planning and the adoption of professional practices are key factors in their growth.
Registration will begin at 9:45 a.m. BUSINESS The program will begin with opening remarks by Dr. Alain Daou, Dean of the School of Business Administration at AUB Mediterraneo. Next, Professor Panikkos Poutziouris, visiting professor and professor of Business Administration at the European Institute of Management and Finance (EIMF), will present the topic “How Family Businesses Grow—or Go Off the Rails—Under the Management of Their Owners.”
Three business leaders will also participate in the workshop, each of whom will present their own perspective on the context of a family business: Lisa Nemitsa Petevi, Founder and Chairwoman of L. Nemitsas Ltd, will share her experience from the founder’s perspective; Thanos Michaelides, CEO of Thanos Hotels & Resorts, will present the next generation’s perspective; and Bilal Zein, head of the Single-Family Office at the Averda Group, will discuss the approach of a professional who is not a family member.
This will be followed by an open discussion moderated by Dr. Daou, giving participants the opportunity to ask the speakers questions and exchange experiences. The program will conclude with a light lunch and networking opportunities.
Participation in the workshop is free and open to the public. The event is aimed at family business owners, representatives of the next generation, professionals working in family businesses, students, and anyone interested in the development of family businesses.
The workshop will be conducted in English. Those interested are invited to register by November 2 via the online registration form.
