The Family Office Sherpa When The Family Office Scaffolding Comes Down (Or Moves)
Aug 31, 2025
Explore the intriguing concept of family office scaffolding and why it's essential yet temporary. Discover when it's time to reassess and potentially remove these supports. Learn about retaining skills internally by documenting processes, and consider low-touch alternatives to full removal. Shaun discusses which functions should stay flexible and how to avoid common pitfalls during this transition. He emphasizes that successful firms see removal as progress, ensuring lasting value in their operations.
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Scaffolding Is By Design Temporary
- Scaffolding are temporary external structures that professionalise and accelerate family office builds.
- They provide IP transfer, upskilling and know‑what, but are rarely permanent.
Personal Experience Building And Exiting
- Shaun has been both the builder and the removed scaffolder in family offices.
- He and Hall Road moved off projects when goals were completed and the office no longer needed them.
Review Deliberately Before Removing Support
- Do schedule careful reviews before removing supports and use clear engagement scopes.
- Avoid rushing decisions; align timing with the engagement's defined deliverables.