Celebrating 10 Years of the NI Family Business Forum: A Decade of Stories, Vision and Community

Last Friday marked a significant milestone — 10 years of the Northern Ireland Family Business Forum, an event that continues to celebrate, connect, and inspire family businesses across the region.

Over the past decade, the Forum has become more than an event; it’s a community. A place where business leaders come together to share their experiences — the highs, the challenges, and the lessons that come from running a family business.

We would like to extend a huge thank you to all the family businesses who attended this year’s event and to those who have supported and shared their insight with us over the years. Your openness, collaboration, and commitment to growth have been the driving force behind the Forum’s success.

This milestone year brought together an inspiring panel of speakers who shared their personal journeys, lessons learned, and practical advice on what it takes to grow, adapt, and sustain a family business.

Each of this year’s speakers offered something truly special:

• Christian Majgaard, former LEGO executive, reminded us that “you are not only selling LEGO, you are selling a philosophy of learning and development for children.” His insights into innovation, creativity, and purpose-driven business resonated strongly with everyone in the room.
• Mark Hutchinson CDir spoke passionately about creating a vision for your company — one that’s so ambitious it almost feels ridiculous, because if it’s not, it’s not big enough. He reflected on how focusing on his people and building a strong company culture, grounded in the family values his father instilled in him, continues to guide the Hutchinson Group’s growth today.
• Stephen McCormack shared an inspiring story of perseverance, graft, and innovation, proving that determination and adaptability are at the heart of long-term success.
• Vicki O’Toole captivated attendees with her honesty and reflections on leadership, legacy, and navigating the realities of running a multi-generational family business.

A huge thank you also goes to Susan HayesCulleton CFA, “The Positive Economist”, who once again expertly guided discussions with warmth, energy, and insight, and to Ian Snowden, Permanent Secretary at the Department for the Economy, for closing the event and recognising the vital role family businesses play in Northern Ireland’s economy.

We are deeply grateful to Ulster University for their continued partnership and contribution over the past 10 years. Together, we’ve built a platform that brings real value to family businesses — creating space for learning, networking, and shared growth.

A special thank you to Ian Smyth for his ongoing collaboration and support in helping the Forum grow and flourish over the years.

As we reflect on a decade of connection and collaboration, one thing is clear — Northern Ireland’s family businesses are built on resilience, innovation, and strong family values. They are the heartbeat of our economy, and it’s been our privilege to celebrate and support them through the Forum.

We look forward to the next 10 years of learning, sharing, and championing this incredible community.

If you would like to stay connected with the NI Family Business Forum, keep up to date with future events, insights, and resources by emailing Victoria on victoria@hm-accountants.com

Here’s to the next 10 years of celebrating and supporting Northern Ireland’s family business community.

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