Assume you are a conflict mediator brought in to consult on a family business. There are two siblings who are both executives and a third sibling with stock in the company who does not work at the company. The executive siblings disagree on whether to acquire another company. It is not clear from the company policies who has authority to make the decision. Their disagreement is getting hostile they are fighting at the office. They are also making other employees and family members take sides. Both have retained their own advisors (lawyers, accountants) and are having behind-the- scenes discussions with board members.

List some potential consequences of the conflict on the following stakeholders:

Employees/other management

Customers

Other shareholders

Do you think the company can:

Restore stakeholder confidence?

Eliminate the toxic environment?