Lancaster University Leipzig welcomed Dr Allan Discua Cruz, Director of the Centre for Family Business at Lancaster University Management School (LUMS), to its Leipzig campus today. His visit brought together students, academics and colleagues from across the Lancaster University community for an exchange on family businesses, entrepreneurship and the role of values and heritage in shaping organisations.
As part of his visit, Dr Discua Cruz delivered a presentation exploring his latest research into family businesses and the unique stories behind them. His work examines how family businesses are influenced not only by strategic decisions and economic factors, but also by their history, identity and the values passed on through generations.
Every family in business has a story to tell, a legend to live up to, a tragedy to lament.
This perspective highlights the complex human dimensions behind family enterprises and demonstrates why understanding businesses requires looking beyond financial performance alone.
The insights shared during the session were highly relevant for students across the business disciplines at Lancaster University Leipzig. While some graduates may one day take over a family business or start their own venture, the themes explored by Dr Discua Cruz are equally valuable for those pursuing careers within established organisations. Understanding organisational culture, decision-making processes and the stories that shape companies is an important part of developing future business leaders.
Beyond his engagement with students, the visit also provided an opportunity for Dr Discua Cruz to connect with colleagues at Lancaster University Leipzig and exchange ideas with fellow academics. Regular visits from researchers and lecturers from Lancaster University’s UK campus play an important role in strengthening the academic links between the two campuses, encouraging collaboration and knowledge-sharing across the Lancaster University network.
These exchanges reflect the close relationship between Lancaster University Leipzig and Lancaster University Management School, ensuring that students and staff benefit from an international academic community where expertise, research and perspectives are shared across borders.
