I've Sat Where You're Sitting
As a former C-Suite executive and family business owner, I understand the weight and complexity of the interconnected decisions you face — because I've faced them too. I've since mentored hundreds of NextGen leaders 1:1 -- learning personal stories from small family firms to the world's largest family-owned corporations, helping them navigate their complex family environments to maximize the likelihood of generational success and personal satisfaction.
David Sands — Founder & Principal Advisor
My Story
From the Boardroom to the Classroom — and Back Again
I spent over two decades in C-Suite leadership roles, including as owner and operator of a second-generation family business. I know firsthand what it feels like when the business and the family are deeply intertwined — how decisions affect the family unit and all related stakeholders — not just the business itself.
Family business is complex: unless you've lived it yourself, you simply cannot fully understand...
Having sold my ownership interest through wise succession planning (with preserving family harmony at top of mind), my journey moved to the classroom, where I spent a decade teaching undergraduate and graduate students Operations and Strategy/Consulting — including a dedicated course on Family Entrepreneurship. Business students sought out my classes to learn from a no-nonsense, real-world practitioner — and not an academic theorist. The unique classroom approach I employed led to the college-wide teaching award below.
My journey also involved leading peer exchange roundtables, individually mentoring hundreds of next generation leaders preparing to ascend within their family firms. What I found, again and again, was that the next generation didn't lack ambition or capability. They lacked a trusted guide — someone who understood both the business and the family dynamics, and who could help them navigate the space between.
ARIQore Consulting was built to be that guide. Whether you're a founder thinking about succession, a NextGen leader trying to level-up and earn your seat at the table, or a family trying to get on the same page — I bring the experience, insight, and the genuine care to help you move forward.
Experience That Spans Both Worlds
My Philosophy
Consulting That Honors the Whole Family
“The best family businesses don't just survive the transition — they grow stronger because of it.”
I don't believe in one-size-fits-all frameworks. Family businesses are living systems — shaped by history, relationships, values, and vision. My approach starts with listening: understanding where you've been, where you are, and where you want to go. From there, we build a path that works for your family, your business, and your future.
Ready to Have a Real Conversation?
The first step is a no-pressure consultation call. Let's talk about where you/your family business currently are — and what kind of support might help get you to where you want to be.