Family business goes into the fifth generation: a new beginning!

On January 11, 2025, Wilhelm Köhne handed over the management of his electrical installation to his son Yannick after 25 years. This handover marks an important milestone for the family company, which is now managed in the fifth generation. The sixth generation has already started to prepare for its way.

The solemn handover took place in the presence of electrical guideline chief Bertold Drewel and Mayor Thomas Tappe. During the ceremony, Bianca and Wilhelm Köhne symbolically presented a key with flowers to Yannick, who has headed the company since January 1st.

generation change and new structures

As described in another article by ESENTRI, the generation change not only brings a breath of fresh air to the company, but also new roles for the former managing director. After the handover, Wilhelm Köhne will be able to get involved in functions such as consultants or member of the supervisory board. It is of great importance that the new responsibilities are clearly defined and the expectations of both sides are clarified.

The former owner has the option of using his extensive experience and his networks to support the company. Good communication and close cooperation between the age and the new management level are crucial to enable the new managing director for their own ideas and visions. The generation change is considered a complex process that requires careful planning and preparation.

The early identification of potential successors: Inside, it is as important as the gradual procedure in order to optimally address the opportunities and risks of generation change. Open cooperation between the generations and the active design of digitization are also central to the future viability of the company.