The programme is designed in accordance with the Hong Kong Qualification Framework Level 6 on the Qualifications Register (QR). Graduates of this programme are eligible to apply for course and unit exemption with reference to the Graduate School’s Policy on Course and Unit Exemptions for Postgraduate Students. The application is subject to approval from the CUHK Graduate Division of Business Administration and the Graduate School. (QR Registration No.: 25/000741/L6)
The Professional Certificate Programme in Family Business and Wealth Succession features distinct modules that address various aspects of managing a family office, including Family Office Management, Family Office Strategy, Investments and Wealth Management, Legal and Tax, and Philanthropy. Through the implementation of this innovative programme, participants can expect to gain valuable insights and heightened exposure to the dynamic landscape of family offices, equipping them with the skills necessary to effectively navigate this evolving field.
January 2026
CUHK Main Campus
Min 16 Needed for Course to Begin
At the end of the course, participants will:
Participants need to complete 6 modules to obtain the Professional Certificate Programme in Family Business and Wealth Succession.
Succession planning is not simply a strategic process for ensuring smooth leadership transition. It goes beyond identifying successors and business development. Its broader goal is to support wealth preservation and regeneration, nurturing family talent, and fostering a cohesive structure for family unity. Beyond mitigating risks, the process aims to continue the family legacy and values, ensuring sustained success. By recognizing the intricate balance between business and family dynamics, succession planning becomes a comprehensive strategy for long-term prosperity, aligning individual aspirations with organizational goals, and fortifying the foundation for generational prosperity and longevity.
Legal and tax considerations are crucial for family businesses and offices. Navigating regulations, estate planning, and tax strategies requires specialized knowledge of familial and financial dynamics.Today, business families face challenges with cross-border estate planning, tax issues, and regulatory frameworks like Common Reporting Standards and GDPR. The legal framework must align with family goals to ensure smooth transitions and asset protection across generations.
Strategic tax planning is essential for minimizing liabilities and maximizing wealth preservation. Collaboration between attorneys and tax experts is vital for adapting to evolving legislation and providing tailored solutions, ensuring compliance and fostering enduring prosperity.
Next-generation family members often lack the skills or confidence to manage family businesses and offices, particularly in leadership, strategic decision-making, and governance. Existing programs focus heavily on technical skills. This module covers personal development and leadership coaching necessary for next-generation readiness, and is designed for both the leaders and those interested in fostering leadership in the context of family business and family office.
Investment structuring for families involves creating frameworks to optimize wealth growth and preservation. Tailored to family goals, risk appetites, and timelines, this process includes selecting vehicles like trusts, holding companies, or family limited partnerships, offering flexibility, tax benefits, and succession planning. Expert analysis of market trends guides strategic asset allocation, with regular reviews to align with evolving family objectives. This personalized approach combines financial expertise with an understanding of familial dynamics, fostering sustained growth and safeguarding wealth across generations. Many Ultra High-Net-Worth Individuals face challenges in establishing frameworks for strategic asset allocation and risk management. This course addresses these unique needs, focusing on tailored investment strategies that prioritize long-term growth and alignment with family values.
With families, we will specifically tap into Impact investment and venture philanthropy. These are crucial components of responsible wealth management, not only prioritize financial returns and societal impact but also emphasize enhancing a family’s social capital with their community.
By strategically deploying resources into projects and organizations that align with both financial goals and social values, families can strengthen their ties with communities and contribute meaningfully to social development. This intentional integration of social capital into investment and philanthropic endeavors fosters a legacy of positive influence, promoting financial prosperity as well as creating a lasting, positive impact on the society, thereby enriching the family’s overall reputation and interconnectedness within the community. In return, the family can enjoy a reputation and strengthen their own family identity as they devote to a shared purpose.
Effectively managing a family office involves coordinating diverse duties and responsibilities, including financial planning, personnel, legal and tax matters, book-keeping and recordings, concierge, etc. This module enhances students with a deep understanding of the family’s values, goals, and dynamics when dealing with these duties and responsibilities.
Successful family office management involves establishing clear governance structures, implementing strategic financial planning, fostering open communication, and tailoring services to meet the unique needs of each family member. Continuous adaptation to changing circumstances and a focus on long-term sustainability are crucial for navigating the complexities of family office management.
English and/or Chinese will be used as the medium for instruction
Part Time
6 – 36 months
Holders of a Bachelor’s degree from a reputable university or equivalent professional qualifications
To be awarded Professional Certificate in Family Business and Wealth Succession, participants are required to have an overall attendance rate of 70% of each module and pass the assessments of each module with a letter grade not lower than Grade C