Helping family businesses act before pressure causes lasting damage.
Calm, experienced guidance for families in business who know that waiting is no longer neutral — and want to move forward without getting it wrong.
Helping family businesses think clearly when pressure matters most ®
01299 382000
I’m Peter Roper — often known as The Family Business Man. I have spent more than three decades supporting thousands of family businesses through growth, succession and difficult transitions.
I also work in an inter-generational family business myself, so I understand these challenges not only professionally, but personally.
My focus is not theory, but lived experience — combining commercial insight with a deep understanding of family dynamics, pressure and long-term thinking.
I am also a regular podcast guest, contributing to thoughtful conversations around leadership, succession and the human side of business.
No glib theories just sound, practical and proven strategies based upon real world experience.
When business pressure becomes personal
Running a business with family has always carried extra weight. In the current economic climate, that weight has increased.
Rising costs, tighter margins and ongoing uncertainty place strain not just on the business, but on the relationships behind it. In family businesses, commercial pressure quickly becomes personal. Conversations are postponed to keep the peace. Decisions are delayed. And often, one or two people carry far more than their share.
Doing nothing can feel like the safest option. In reality, it is rarely neutral.
For more than 30 years, I have worked alongside family-owned businesses, helping them navigate exactly these moments — where pressure is building quietly, and thoughtful action matters more than speed.
This work is not about rushing families into decisions. It is about recognising when delay is no longer safe, and creating a calm, sensible way forward.
Family Business Challenges
Most family businesses do not struggle because of poor products or lack of effort.
They struggle because:
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Important conversations are avoided
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Roles and responsibilities are unclear
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Succession is postponed rather than planned
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One or two people carry too much emotional weight
In uncertain economic conditions, these issues intensify.
Left unaddressed, pressure quietly builds until decisions are forced by circumstance rather than choice.
My role is to help families recognise these patterns early, reduce risk and create a calmer, more deliberate way forward.
How I help
My role is to help families slow things down enough to think clearly, speak honestly and make decisions they can live with — now and in the years ahead.
Some families need reassurance and perspective. Others need structured support over time. In a small number of situations, families need private, confidential advice.
There is no single right starting point — only the next sensible step.
Who I work with
I work with established family businesses who:
Care deeply about both the business and the family
Feel pressure increasing rather than easing
Sense that important conversations are being avoided
Want experienced, trusted guidance rather than generic advice
These are not start-ups or short-term projects. They are businesses with history, responsibility and a future worth protecting.
Work With Peter
Families often reach out at different stages.
Some are looking for reassurance and perspective. Others know they need structure and support over time. Occasionally, a situation requires private, confidential guidance.
Rather than forcing families into a single route, I work through the Family Business Practice, which offers clear, progressive support depending on what feels right now.
Many people I work with reach me via structured support pathways, including the Pressure Check, Understanding Family Business Programme, The Family Business Survival Project or Private Advisory at FamilyBusinessPractice.com
If you would like to explore structured support, resources or longer-term guidance, you can do so via the Family Business Practice.
Your next step
For families who want structured support, learning resources or longer-term guidance, I have created the Family Business Practice — a calm, practical platform designed to support family businesses through periods of pressure and change.
Explore the Family Business Practice
Or: 👉 Enquire for private consultation
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Read MorePeter is an inspirational speaker who is passionate about helping businesses to represent themselves at their best. Peter's presentations are motivating and inspiring with practical tips to use when presenting.
Claire Wozencroft
Peter is as genuine as he is enterprising and capable. He is one of life's natural communicators and, from a professional and personal point of view, is utterly trustworthy. He always puts himself out for clients and others.
Sean Brickell
Peter is that rarest of speakers, someone who actually manages to combine education, entertainment and a commanding presence on stage. He speaks with consummate authority and adds real value to his audiences. Hire him with confidence.
Dave Thomas
We have spoken together at various events, written training programmes and co-authored a best selling book.
I'm not really going to have anything bad to say, am I?!
Seriously, Peter is a fantastic guy to work with and I have learnt so much from him. A fun and engaging speaking and genuine person.
One of life's 'good guys'.
Andy Lopata
Peter is not just an outstanding professional speaker, he constantly makes a huge commitment to helping others in the business to develop as professional speakers as a Past National President of the Professional Speakers Association. He is a speaker who walks his talk and I highly recommend him
Rikki Arundel
"I want to express my sincere thanks for the fantastic work you've done with our team. Your impact on their confidence has been remarkable. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you again in the future”.
Planet 81
I've seen Peter present on a number of occasions - both in a Corporate environment and as part of a Networking meet to a room full of SMEs & Family Businesses. Each time he's been tremendously well received and clearly has a wealth of business experience which he can put across extremely effectively - and at a range of levels.
Mark Tomlinson WPA
Over 80% of businesses in the UK are family owned or run, the knowledge that Peter has is huge and he is always sharing his messages and learning with clients and audiences alike. Proud to call him a friend, mentor and confident – great working with you as always Peter.
Mike Pagan
Peter shared his story with around 200 professional speakers at last weekend's annual conference of the PSA. His learnings, tips and insights touched a nerve and he really connected with us. His honesty, passion and commitment shone through. Thanks Peter.
Mark Lee
"Peter's ability to translate deep business concepts into relatable stories is remarkable."
Richard H
"Peter's keynote was more than just a talk; it was an experience that transformed how we see our business and ourselves."
Sarah G
“After attending Peter’s speaking masterclass I now have 4 speaking opportunities. Previously I would have turned them down – now I’m just excited and keen to get talking! I fully recommend training with Peter for excellent coaching, a safe place to make mistakes, receive feedback and perfecting your technique before giving presentations.”
Claire Hill
“I've been privileged to attend Peter's Family Business Practice events over the last couple of years and they are amazing events. Peter's energy is stunning and his dedication to helping family businesses and their owners is without measure.
If you've not had the chance to speak to Peter or attend one of his events then I highly recommend it. Really appreciate everything you do and thank you.”
Dave James
“I don't think there's another speaker in the world that knows more about family businesses (in other words most businesses) than Peter Roper. He is a rare talent on stage, delivers great advice, and is the most charming and likeable man on and off stage. I recommend him unreservedly.”
Alan Stevens
I would strongly recommend any member to join this programme, I have learnt some really valuable tips and lessons across a number of different topics including networking, presenting and maximising client relationships…… I look forward to working with Peter more in the future developing me and my business.
Jamie Pratt Stockton Business Consulting
Peter provided a great course with positive interaction between the delegates to help one another. It really helped to focus the mind on how to develop my business further during the strange Covid times we find ourselves in. Highly recommended.
Simon Baldwin - High House Wealth Management Ltd
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