Passing the torch in family businesses

Continuing our insights from the SharePHIL forum on family business succession, the second part delves into more perspectives from next-generation leaders on navigating change, driving transformation and building enduring legacies.

- (Conclusion)

Blending legacy and innovation Belo-Cincochan also shared her journey of modernizing Wilcon Depot while remaining rooted in her father's vision.

"Maybe I can share with you my story of the very first store opening I attended 22 years ago. It was January when I was with my dad, our founder, the first generation," she recalled. "We were walking down the construction site of the store, which was along Alabang-Zapote Road. He was really larger than life to me."

Her experience watching her father's hands-on approach to business laid the foundation for her leadership style, which combined the core values of the business with a forward-thinking mindset. She realized that while a founder-led enterprise like her father's was effective, transitioning to a more professionalized, scalable business meant evolving beyond centralized, gut-feel decision-making to ensure "organizational sustainability."

"I am a great believer in technology as an enabler," Belo-Cincochan explained. "It's not about the latest and greatest AI, but how I can help enable people in the organization to give the best customer service."

She modernized Wilcon's internal systems, upgraded IT and compliance documentation and gradually shifted decision-making power to empowered teams.

Her focus on data-driven decision-making and operational efficiency helped Wilcon expand rapidly, now at 101 stores and counting, while maintaining a company culture that valued collaboration and empowerment.