Published Paper Details:

Purpose: This paper aims to understand the relationship between Gen Z and their family businesses in India. The study focuses on three key areas: their intent to join the family business, their interest in working there, and their preferences for inheritance. The study is looking to fill a gap in the research, as there's not much specific information on what drives Indian Gen Z heirs and how they see the difference between leading a business versus simply owning a part of it. Design/methodology/approach: The study is a mixed-methods study that will use both qualitative and quantitative research methods to get a full picture of Gen Z succession in Indian family businesses. The research will be conducted by interviewing people, the interviews are designed to explore the motive of the GENZ. Findings: The study has identified four main perspectives among Gen Z regarding the family business. Some are genuinely eager to lead and grow the company, while others are reluctant successors who want to pursue their own careers. A third group consists of cautious contributors who are willing to join but feel they can't make a significant impact. Lastly, there are the obligated heirs, who join out of a sense of duty despite wanting a different career path. Originality: The study examines the preferences of the Gen Z heirs within Indian family businesses. It gives a point of view for the intent, interest and Inheritance Preferences of the Gen Z heirs of Indian family businesses. Research limitations/implications of research: The study is limited by a small, self-reported sample from heirs alone, which may oversimplify motivations and lacks perspectives from other stakeholders, making findings context-specific to India and not broadly generalizable. Practical Implications: The study shows that while many Gen Z heirs prioritize personal careers, those who do engage bring fresh ideas, pushing family firms to rethink succession, adopt flexible roles, and benefit from stronger, more innovative leadership.