FAMILY DYNAMICS / GOVERNANCE

NextGen. First Year. What I’ve Learned (So Far)

Catherine Garrity-Frans

May 30, 2025

One year. 365 days. And wow, what a ride.

This time last year, I officially joined the Compass Point team – not just as a family member cheering from the sidelines, but as a full-fledged part of the crew. Since then, I’ve learned more than I ever expected… about our clients, about the family business space, about myself, and yes, about working with your dad every single day.

So, in true Catherine fashion, I’m taking a moment to reflect on what this year has meant and what it’s taught me. Not in a bullet-point-resume-growth way, but in a real, energizing, humbling way. Here are my reflections:

Reflection #1: Our Client Connections Run Deep

One of the coolest surprises of this past year? How deeply connected I feel to our clients.

Coming in as a “NextGen” myself, I wasn’t just observing the family dynamics – I was living them. So when clients wrestled with communication breakdowns or generational transitions, I understood it. I could relate on a very real level, and I believe they could feel that.

These aren’t just professional relationships. They are Human. Emotional. Impactful. And being able to support other families while navigating my own role in ours. It’s been eye-opening and incredibly rewarding.

Reflection #2: This Team? Unreal.

I’ve worked with strong teams before. But this one? Next level.

The Compass Point team isn’t just smart – they’re intentional, collaborative, and wildly generous with their time and expertise. They welcomed me in, believed in me, challenged me, trusted me, and made me better.

This work isn’t just about giving advice. It’s about rolling up our sleeves and diving in – together. Whether we’re solving complex issues for a client or brainstorming big ideas internally, the support is always there. And I feel so lucky to be part of it.

Reflection #3: The Entrepreneurial Mindset is Ever-Growing

Joining a family business isn’t just a job shift – it’s a mindset shift.

This year stretched me emotionally, challenged my communication skills, and forced me to think more strategically. I had to learn when to speak up, when to listen, and how to see the big picture. I had to embrace growth over comfort.

More than anything, I’ve realized that this role isn’t just about my development. It’s about helping our family business – and our clients – build something lasting. Legacy isn’t a buzzword around here. It’s the heartbeat of everything we do.

Reflection #4: Working with My Dad is Actually the Best

Let’s start with the obvious. Working with my dad every day? Honestly, it’s a gift. Not many people get to do that, and I don’t take it for granted. I’ve always said he’s my biggest mentor and supporter and that became more evident this year.

Being able to learn from him in real time, bounce ideas off each other, challenge each other, and deepen both our personal and professional bond… it’s something I’ll never stop being grateful for.

And here’s some real talk. I now have access to his calendar. So when he conveniently doesn’t pick up my call, I know exactly where to find him. Little wins. 😂

Reflection #5: Sharing a Last Name Doesn’t Make You Immune to Imposter Syndrome

Whew. This one hit hard.

When I made the leap from a different industry to join Compass Point, I had this lingering voice in my head whispering, “Do I actually belong here?” Cue the imposter syndrome. And yes, someone once called me a “nepo baby” as a joke—and oof, it stung more than I’d like to admit.

But here’s the truth: I’ve earned my spot. I’ve put in the work, asked the questions, made the mistakes, and had the hard conversations. One of the best tools we’ve adopted is this simple phrase:

“I’m wearing my Compass Point hat” when it’s time to talk business, “Dad/daughter hat” when it’s time for family.

It sets the tone, clears the air, and reminds us what role we’re showing up in. (Highly recommend!)

Reflection #6: Gratitude Fuels Vision

My dad didn’t have to bring me on board. And I didn’t show up with a background in consulting. But he saw my potential—and trusted me enough to say, “Let’s do this.”

That trust? It means everything.

Now, as I look ahead, I’m fired up. I’m excited to keep building relationships with NextGen leaders, to work with more families, to keep learning and growing, and to find new ways to bring value to our clients and our company.

I have thoughts on where I think this path might lead me, but only time and patience will tell. I’m all in and I can’t wait to see what year two brings.

Living What We Preach

Are you in a family business or thinking about joining one? Let’s chat. I know firsthand how amazing (and sometimes complicated) it can be, and I’m always up for a real conversation about what it looks like behind the scenes.

We’re all figuring it out, one day at a time. Let’s do it together.