Erben Associates is proud to share that Jim Erben’s upcoming book, Succession by Design: How Visionary Leaders Prepare Their Organization for What’s Next, is now available for pre-order. The book will be released on July 28, 2026, and is available for pre-order through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, BAM!, and Bookshop.
For more than three decades, Jim has helped business owners think through one of the most important transitions they will ever face: how to eventually step away from the business they have built while protecting value, family harmony, employee security, and long-term legacy.
Succession by Design brings that experience to a broader audience. The book is written for owners who want more clarity, confidence, and control over what happens next, whether they are preparing for a future sale, planning for the next generation, strengthening continuity, or simply trying to understand what their business needs before transition decisions become urgent.
Without a clear succession plan, even a successful business can leave value exposed. Decisions may be delayed, leadership may remain too dependent on the owner, family expectations may be unclear, and the future of the organization may be left to chance. Jim’s message is direct: a successful exit does not happen by default. It happens by design.
The book offers a practical framework to help owners understand business value, prepare for the unexpected, increase transferability, and make decisions that support the next chapter with greater intention.
We are excited to celebrate this milestone with Jim and look forward to sharing Succession by Design with the business owners, families, and advisors who can benefit from its message.
