Case study
The client, their challenge
Our client is a UK-based, multi-generational family whose wealth originates from a global family business. As their wealth matured, focus shifted from structuring and income to defining purpose, legacy and intergenerational responsibility.
To align stakeholders, the family engaged an independent adviser to conduct a comprehensive process involving all key participants, including IQ-EQ as trustee. This initiative aimed to define shared values, long-term objectives and the role of wealth, with philanthropy emerging as a central pillar of the family’s legacy.
At the same time, succession planning was underway. The principal remained actively involved, while the wider beneficial class continued to evolve. This created a need for clear governance, transparent decision-making and careful balancing of interests during a sensitive transition.
Our solution
IQ-EQ played a central role throughout this period of reflection and restructuring, acting as a steward of both capital and values.
Purpose and values-led governance
- Participated in stakeholder interviews and workshops to help define the purpose of family wealth
- Embedded long-termism and philanthropy within the trust governance framework
- Helped design governance structures that promote clarity, stability and alignment
Investment strategy aligned with legacy
- Worked with the Principal to reflect family values within the investment strategy
- Ensured decision-making balanced financial returns with long-term purpose
- Maintained a focus on income generation, capital preservation and sustainability
Philanthropy and court approval
- Integrated structured philanthropic giving into the trust as a core legacy component
- Secured a landmark Royal Court blessing approving a significant philanthropic gift
- Managed a complex process involving a UK tax charge, ensuring robust governance and documentation
Succession and wealth waterfall planning
- Developed a clear “waterfall” mechanism for the staged transfer of wealth
- Ensured distributions remain aligned with agreed family values
- Maintained transparency and strong communication throughout the transition
Results
- Purpose-led stewardship: A shared understanding of wealth beyond financial return
- Embedded philanthropy: Giving placed at the core of the family’s legacy strategy
- Structured succession: Transparent, well-defined intergenerational transfer mechanisms
- Trusted trustee role: Balanced advocacy for the principal and wider family during transition
