General information only. This is not legal, tax or investment advice. Check the rules that apply to you with a qualified adviser.
Structure and staff
Many family offices employ fewer than a dozen people. Common roles include a chief investment officer, a chief financial officer or controller, and staff for reporting, tax and administration. Some family members work in the office; others are involved only through a board or committee.
How decisions are made
In smaller offices, one principal may decide alone. Larger offices often use an investment committee with written criteria. Knowing which applies matters, because it changes who reads a proposal and how long a decision takes.
Why they are hard to research
- Many are not required to register or publish filings.
- Some operate under a holding company name that does not mention the family.
- Websites, where they exist, are often brief.
- Staff and mandates change without public notice.
How to research them
Combine public sources: the office's own site, registry entries, deal announcements, conference agendas and interviews. Record dates and sources as you go. The vetting guide covers this step by step.
Working with them respectfully
Privacy matters to most families. Approach through published channels, keep first messages short, and accept a no. A directory can help you find offices, but it does not mean any of them wants to hear from you.