Greetings and happy new year! I started as Victorian State Manager on 11^th January and the first few weeks have been busy getting to know some of the members, meeting staff, committee members and partner representatives.  I am already getting the impression that the family business space is a very passionate one and I look forward to meeting more family businesses and members in the coming weeks and months.

We have some fantastic opportunities coming up throughout the year and I’m glad I have joined in time for this years Family Business National Conference being held in Melbourne from 17th -19th August, make sure you put the date in your diaries.

Events coming up:

• Adviser Networking Drinks – 11^th Feb
• First Conversation Series:  – 16^th Feb
• Family Business Directors Course – 21/22 March

It is also a great time to get involved with a Forum Group, the first meeting is in February – if you have been thinking about being involved this year, give me a call!

Also coming up is the Growth Summit being held on March 17^th  There is an opportunity we have made available at a reduced rate for those part of the family business community. Speakers include Salim Ismail, founder of Singularity University and author of Exponential Organisations, Geoff Smart author of WHO and global expert on hiring teams, Frances Frei, Professor at Harvard Business School, author of Uncommon Service and Joseph Grenny, author of Crucial Conversations and social scientist for business performance. Register before 5th February and you could save over $200, visit the website. 

Alex Petersen
VIC State Manager