"Why Family Businesses Fail," Frank Blethen, Davis Wright Tremaine, Seattle

This session featured a case study of The Seattle Times, owned and operated by the Blethen family since 1896. The discussion will be led by current publisher and CEO, Frank Blethen, who joined the family business in 1968. As a member of the family's 4th generation, Mr. Blethen discussed what he thinks it takes to be a successful family business and will share some of the key principles used by The Seattle Times in handling transitions issues, family communication, and governance.

This was a fascinating discussion focused on one of the leading Northwest family businesses.