The family business is developing in the tension between the personal small enterprise and the self-sustaining organization of a large public company, with a significant separation between ownership and management. In light of the continuity issues, the question arises regarding the efficient top management structure. This work constructs a theoretical-conceptual framework that captures relevant design-related goals, influences, and action dimensions. Based on corporate law, all mandatory and optional top governing bodies are considered, including the important relationship between the management and supervisory bodies and the representation of shareholders. Additionally, the results of an empirical study are incorporated into the formulation of design recommendations.