b'Chris and Chuck Cornelus own Cornelius Seeds in Bellevue, Iowa. Both of their sons and one of their daughters-in-law also help manage thebusiness with them.Though Tim Greenes been involved with Burrus Seed sinceCornelius Seed doesnt ask Why? Instead, they ask, Why not?before he and his wife, Lori Burrus Greene, were married, afterWe have eager, very capable young men and women who joining the family, he was able to see how much room his father- want to be in the business and who we want to be happy, she in-law, Tom was given in terms of leadership, even as his ownadded. Allow them to make decisions. Let them have successes father was still engaged in the business.and let them experience trials.Her grandfather Martin was still involved at the business atEven though its not always easy, especially due to differ-the time. I remember the presence that he still had in the busi- ences in management and communication styles, differences in ness and the wisdom he showed at the time, Greene, now presi- addressing deadlines and differences in day-to-day interaction, dent of Burrus Seed, says. It was interesting seeing the dynamicCornelius says that theyre all better for it.between he and his sons, Tom and Toddthe third generationThere is a steep learning curve for both generations whenin the business. I learned not only the past history, but whythe young guns join the family business, she says. Keep your and how some of the decisions were made. eye on the prize. Work through the dust-ups and count on the One of the biggest takeaways he saw was how the businessfact that being a family will pull you through and the celebrations was set up. Martin had, when Tom and Todd were younger, setwill be so sweet.up the business in a particular way: instead of forcing both of hisIn our business of being a family, faith and work ethic are sons on the same path, he identified the need to split their rolesso very important, she adds. Attending church and prayer is to give them their own areas of responsibility. important. Long days, late nights, supper in the tractor, kissing Todd focused on production and Tom focused on sales,the kids goodnight after they are asleep We are passionate Greene says. They were a team, but each led their own armabout what we do, so working extra is part of the life we chose. of the business and supported each other. It was a really coolA strong work ethic is a difference maker in a family business.dynamicthey were honest and straightforward with theirCornelius says that not only do they believe its important thoughts and ideas, but they respected each other as well. to turn over responsibilities to the next generation, but to share At Cornelius Seed, they have set up their next generationthat control and ownership with them. That way, if she and her in a similar fashion, modeled after what the generations ofhusband were to retire tomorrow, theyd know the company is in Corneliuses had done before.good hands.One thing shes noticed? The next generation working withFrom there, its important to ensure the next generation is 22/ SEEDWORLD.COMJANUARY 2023'