The annual OMNI (Overseas Moving Network International) conference took place at The Chedi, a five-star boutique hotel in Lustica Bay, Montenegro, at the beginning of May.
The event was attended by just over 100 representatives of OMNI member companies and was, as always, a relaxed opportunity for business leaders to share quality time together and to learn from each other. Most of the delegates had made the journey from Dubrovnik, where they had attended the FIDI conference, by coach – by far the quickest, easiest and most sustainable way of travelling between the venues.
The OMNI conference always has a firm focus on business. This year was no exception. The business sessions were spread over two days and, in addition to the sessions relating to OMNI administration and awards, concentrated specifically on the topic of succession planning. In an industry so heavily dominated by private and family-run businesses, this is a topic very close to the hearts of many, whether from the perspective of the predecessor or the successor.
The business sessions were led by Albert Ciuksza Jr from Solutions 21, a leadership development company in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Albert is an entrepreneur as well as a mentor to many business leaders in the region. He is also the author of a business book, aptly called: Succeeding – stepping up without stepping in it. Albert guided the group through the succession process, including analysing why so many business owners find letting go so difficult, and the emotional side of handing over the reins. He also chaired a panel discussion with people who had recently gone through succession, quizzing them on their experiences and what’ if anything, they would have done differently.
Many business speakers seem to aim to baffle with endless glib tricks – five ways to improve your sales, or ten top tips to do something else – but Albert didn’t do that ...
Photo: Albert Ciuksza Jr.