“I see Ross more than I see any other human being. We’re on the phone probably 20 times a day, we sit across from each other in the office and we’re often there 12-14 hours a day. We spend basically all of our time together.– we’re still very much in this start-up phase of the business – as it grows and there’ll be less need for Ross and I to do everything.”
Clashes came about because while Ross,44, had come from an industry background, Mike was more used to making changes and implementing them quickly. “You can be more honest with a sibling, you don’t need to pull your punches. You still have to go for dinner on a Sunday night with the family, so you have to put it behind you. That often helps break the ice after a fight.”
But there are also huge upsides. “Whether you win or lose, you’re getting to spend all your time with somebody you really care about and love.”When setting up Middle Eastern food brand Cuzena, Shadia Al Hili, 51, knew she wanted family members to be part of her business. Her younger sister Sally Middleton, 49, ended up coming on board to handle operations for the business.