Engagement Stages
How a succession planning engagement with Magnolia Hub unfolds — from first conversation through assessment, planning, and handover support.
Every business arrives at succession planning from a different angle. Some owners call us years before they are ready; others ring the week before a buyer’s deadline. The stages below describe our typical engagement path — yours may skip or repeat steps depending on complexity.
Stage 1 — Initial conversation (30 minutes, no fee)
We learn about your business type, staff count, family involvement, and rough timeline. You learn how we work and whether our consultations fit your situation. No documents required at this stage.
Stage 2 — Scoping and engagement letter
If we proceed, we send a written engagement letter naming the consultation type, fee, deliverables, and confidentiality terms. You provide basic financial summaries and an org chart so we can prepare.
Stage 3 — Discovery sessions
Facilitated interviews with you and, where appropriate, key managers or family members. We document informal decision patterns, successor candidates, and risks you already sense but have not written down.
Stage 4 — Analysis and adviser coordination
We review accounts, contracts, and stakeholder maps. With your permission, we speak to your accountant and solicitor to avoid duplicating work or contradicting advice already given.
Stage 5 — Findings and roadmap delivery
You receive a written report or workshop summary with prioritised actions, suggested timelines, and named next steps. We walk through it together and answer questions from anyone you choose to include.
Stage 6 — Implementation support (optional)
Many clients continue with a retainer or project engagement for family governance, staff communications, or handover rehearsals. Others take the roadmap to their existing advisers and reconvene when a milestone approaches.
Typical timelines
| Consultation type | Duration | Your time commitment |
|---|---|---|
| Succession Readiness Assessment | 3–4 weeks | 4–5 hours across two sessions |
| Family Business Transition Advisory | 6–12 months | 2–3 hours per month |
| Exit Planning Consultation | 2–3 weeks | Half-day workshop plus prep |
| Leadership Handover Planning | 4–6 weeks | 6–8 hours including rehearsals |
Ready to begin?
Book a readiness assessment or request an initial conversation.