The Whitbread Family were asked to speak at the Family Business Australia (FBA) State conference in Victoria on Friday 13th May 2011. As a second generation family business, Angela, Claire and John Paul were asked to share their experiences on continuing their family business after the death of the founder, John Whitbread.

Angela Whitbread, the Managing Director of Whitbread Insurance Brokers, said, "This was a great opportunity for us to share our story with other family owned and operated businesses. It is extremely important that the transition from one generation to the next is discussed and formal plans put in place should a key member of management pass away."

John Whitbread, a long standing member of FBA, recognised the importance of succession planning and appointed Angela Whitbread as Managing Director in July 2009.

The past 14 months, although personally challenging for the Whitbread family, has seen the business operations continue to prosper in both Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. John Paul Whitbread attributed the continued success of the business to the dedication of the Whitbread people and also the ongoing support of clients and suppliers.

"Our parents, John and Margaret Whitbread, instilled in us the value of family and it is this value that has enabled Angela, John Paul and I to work in collaboration to continue the legacy of our parents" said Claire Whitbread.

If you would like to learn more about the Whitbread family story please contact Angela, Claire or John Paul Whitbread on 03 8646 0222 or if you would like to become a member of Family Business Australia, a valuable resource for any family business, please click here.

To read a review of the Victorian State conference from an advisor of Family Business Australia please click here.