Crisis management in family firms: do religion and secularization of family decision-makers’ matter?

Purpose The unique dynamics of family firms (FFs) shape the management financial crises. Religious and secular reasons, as a defining characteristic this type firm, provide reference system for key decisions. This paper aims to explore under-researched topic differences in FFs' crisis between religious decision-makers (FDMs), considering secularization developed countries. Design/methodology/approach draws on qualitative-empirical study 14 large FFs from DACH region (Germany, Austria Switzerland), through both media analysis semi-structured interviews with FDMs who have significant influence Findings Despite secularization, religion continues managerial decisions such region. findings show that differs across FDMs, demonstrating substantial impact reasons operational measures. Thus, may partially explain complex ambivalent FFs. indicates shapes FF's increasingly secularized are accountable firm God, which fosters their own personal resources during management. Originality/value contributes existing literature by exploring within Further, it offers deeper insights into is one first studies assess research derives five propositions further discusses broad range original implications theory practice.