Family Office Talent Squeeze Intensifies as Next-Generation Heirs Take Charge

A global family office talent squeeze is intensifying as younger heirs take control and reshape investment priorities, according to a report by IMD and the Family Business Network.

Based on 186 survey responses and 65 interviews conducted across six continents in the first half of 2025, the study found next-generation leaders are pushing impact investing, sustainability, technology upgrades and diversity when hiring advisers.

Demand has risen sharply for alternative-asset analysts, ESG specialists and chief information officers capable of modernising systems, but supply has not kept pace.

Deloitte estimates the number of single-family offices rose 31% from 2019 to late 2024 as wealth transfers accelerate, intensifying competition for professionals combining investment expertise with discretion and emotional intelligence.