Family Office Decision-Maker
A family office decision-maker is the person who can approve an allocation and set constraints for the family’s capital.
Definition
Definition The decision-maker is not always the most senior title. It is the person (or small group) with authority to approve commitments and set boundaries. In many family offices, decision-making is principal-led; in others, it is CIO-led within delegated limits. Some offices require multiple signatures depending on size, illiquidity, or reputational sensitivity. Allocator Context Because teams are lean, influence is concentrated. A “wrong contact” problem is common: outreach goes to someone adjacent to investments, or to a gatekeeper without context, and never reaches the actual decision path. The best targeting identifies who decides, what they decide, and what triggers escalation. Decision Authority This is literally about authority: who can say yes, who can veto, and what changes require re-approval. Knowing this is often more important than knowing the family’s estimated wealth. Why It Matters for Fundraising Correct routing increases conversion and reduces reputational risk. Family offices do not appreciate “trial and error” outreach across multiple internal people. Key Takeaways Decision-making is often concentrated and preference-driven Titles can mislead; authority must be mapped Escalation thresholds matter (size, illiquidity, reputation) Correct routing improves response and trust