Discover the Legacy: The Family Behind a 300-Year-Old Funeral Business

Leading Through Generations

The three Field siblings, Jeremy, Emily, and Charles, have stepped into the spotlight as the co-CEOs of CPJ Field, a family-run funeral services firm that boasts a rich legacy spanning ten generations. Their journey begins with the guidance of their grandfather, who impressed upon them the importance of resolution: “Never go to sleep on an argument.” This wisdom has become a cornerstone of their professional collaboration.

CPJ Field: A Historical Perspective

With a commitment to their family motto, “Care above all,” the Field siblings have embraced their responsibilities in CPJ Field, which has been operating since 1690 and has earned recognition as the oldest independent funeral director in the United Kingdom. This ancestral business has overseen the creation of its first coffin, signaling the beginning of a noteworthy legacy that spans more than three centuries.

The firm, based in Sussex, has achieved an annual revenue nearing £10 million and has successfully conducted over one million funerals, ranging from the solemn services of historical figures like Queen Victoria to lively, themed commemorations such as those inspired by John Wayne. Today, CPJ Field employs around 120 full-time staff members who provide comprehensive funeral planning, burial, and cremation services.

Strengthening Internal Dynamics

The siblings dedicate time each year for reflective discussions about their roles and contracts within the firm, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive working relationship. “We review what we have between us, how we will behave, treat each other, and how we work together,” Jeremy Field explains. This practice ensures they remain aligned and focused on their shared goals, fostering an environment of cooperation and mutual respect.

Brand Recognition and Family Identity

CPJ Field operates across 35 funeral homes located throughout southern England, serving various regions from Bedfordshire to Brighton. The company’s local brands, like Heritage & Sons, are well-known and trusted, enhancing its reputation and accessibility. “The local trading names have high levels of brand recognition,” Field notes. He emphasizes the importance of preserving the legacy of these brands while ensuring clients understand their affiliation with CPJ Field.

Adapting to Modern Challenges

The company has faced multiple acquisition attempts from American conglomerates over the past seven decades, alongside a significant challenge in the mid-90s when the original business, JD Field & Sons, partially lost its family ownership due to stock listing. In 1994, after these turbulent times, Jeremy’s father, Colin, set up a new firm, which revived the family’s legacy. Jeremy approached the owners of the old business to request a reconnection with their history, a move that proved beneficial for both parties.

The Importance of Business Innovation

CPJ Field has a history of innovation, starring notably with the introduction of a glass-sided hearse in the 19th century and more recently, it has established itself as a leading provider of funeral management software since 2014. Understanding the need for better communication tools for families when discussing arrangements, the company recognized a gap in the market for comprehensive software solutions.

“We found that there wasn’t a product that truly supported us, so we decided to create our own funeral management software,” Field shares. The firm transitioned to a cloud-based model, establishing a multi-million-pound technology platform catering to funeral directors across the UK and Europe. “We think we’ve developed something spectacular that is now integral to our business operations,” he adds.

Navigating Through a Crisis

The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges that tested the resilience of CPJ Field. During this time, the firm had to adapt operations, ensuring connectivity to serve families while adhering to government guidelines. “It was unlike anything I’d experienced before,” recalls Field. They relied on the trust inherent in their family-run business to steer their employees through this crisis. Jeremy emphasized the need to foster relationships with the staff and their families while continuing to provide critical services during a time of heightened need.

He candidly acknowledges the discomfort of asking staff to navigate a global health crisis while trusting his leadership to keep them safe. “I’m not going to draw parallels, but nothing had prepared me for such challenges in business,” Jeremy states.

Recognition and Success

In recognition of their services to the funeral profession during the pandemic, Field was awarded an OBE in 2022. He reflects on the wisdom of poet and funeral director Thomas Lynch: “By getting the dead where they need to go, the living get where they need to be.” This philosophy underpins the company’s operations and its commitment to serving families effectively and compassionately.

The Future of CPJ Field

CPJ Field remains a proud member of the Tercentenarians Club, joining other historic family businesses that have persisted for over 300 years. The firm ranks as the ninth oldest in the UK, underscoring its critical position in the industry.

As Jeremy shares insights on leading a family-operated organization, he emphasizes the importance of leaving personal disputes at the door and fostering an environment of frank communication. “Everyone needs to understand where they stand,” he believes. Navigating these conversations, although sometimes challenging, is essential for maintaining harmony and avoiding pent-up tensions. Formal employment agreements are vital for establishing clear expectations and protecting the relationships within the family business.

Conclusion

CPJ Field stands as a testament to the potential of family-run enterprises to thrive across generations, employing a mix of historical respect, modern innovation, and steadfast commitment to service. Their story serves as an inspiring example for others in the field and the broader business community.