Succession by Design: How Our Business Outlives Its Founder

Succession by Design: How Our Business Outlives Its Founder

Overview: Most founders never plan to step back. That’s a mistake. At Affiliated Commerce, we planned for succession before we ever opened our doors. The result is a company designed to run—with or without us.

1. Legal Infrastructure Supports the Exit

From day one, we implemented operating agreements, attribution protocols, and a Founder Disclaimer that allow the business to legally separate from its founder's personal involvement—without losing strategic intent.

2. Attribution Agreements and SSA Compliance

Every contributor signs clear documentation outlining credit, compensation, and control. These agreements enable clarity, prevent disputes, and ensure compliance with programs like Social Security Disability.

3. Redundancy Maps and IP Registries

Our IP—books, code, frameworks—is all documented, licensed, and assigned. Leadership transition is mapped by role, and every asset has a succession plan. Nothing disappears when someone steps away.

4. A Business That Runs Without the Spotlight

Our team knows the protocols. Each division operates semi-autonomously and can run for 6+ months without central leadership. That’s not by accident—that’s by architecture.

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