Making it Happen
In this transition process, everyone from sellers to employee owners play a vital part in making it happen. In this section you will find specialist training, advice and the ‘nuts and bolts’ of the process.
The transition period is in two parts (a) the preparation and contractual time leading up the final transaction, and (b) the first year as the business evolves from a stake-holder controlled business into an effective employee owned business.
The key to a successful ownership culture is educated employee owners. Owning a business brings rights and responsibilities, as well as risks and rewards.
Rights, responsibilities, risks and rewards
Rights
To have more access to information, to influence the direction and leadership of the firm
Responsibilities
To ensure the company is as successful as it can be
Risks
Business can be challenging. Ownership means taking the pain when things get tough, and working together to resolve problems
Rewards
When the company is doing well, employee owners can share in the wealth created
Making it work
WHat’s Involved
There is no one model of employee ownership; the beauty of the structure is that it can be designed and adapted to suit the aspirations of the owner, the needs of the business and the ambitions of the employees.
Guiding you through The Key Elements
Making the transition work is all about attention to detail. We will work with you to ensure the appropriate attention is focused on these vital elements:
Developing an Ownership Culture
We also spend a bit of time exploring what employee ownership will look like. What’s the best way to deliver information to the employee owners? How can employees make their voices heard? How can we really make the most of our employee ownership structure? It’s when people think, feel and act like owners, that you see transformational results.
How long can it take?
Our record is 6 weeks from initial conversation to signing the completion papers! However, that was a very organised business with owners who had undertaken a lot of research before making their decision.
Typically, the business transfer process takes from 3 -6 months. This gives sufficient time to explore the different structures, liaise with shareholders, arrive at an acceptable value for the company and obtain the necessary HMRC tax clearance. It’s well worth investing this time in communicating with and involving employees, because most of them won’t have anticipated being business owners – although there is no personal liability, it can be a daunting thought.
What will it Cost?
The importance of obtaining expert advice cannot be emphasised enough. However, Ownership Associates will endeavour to keep costs down and can recommend experienced legal and accountancy advisers who can support the project, delivering the desired outcome, in a way that won’t break the bank.
Companies in Scotland and Wales may be able to access free support in exploring and implementing employee ownership.
Training Courses
Have a broader understanding of employee ownership. Gain an insight into how to assess company performance. Be better informed on the workings of trusts and share schemes. Have new and tried & tested ideas on making ownership work.
Return to the workplace energized and enthused.
What people say about us
Don’t just take our word for it, here are some quotes from people we have guided through the vision, transition and fruition of employee ownership.
"An enjoyable and useful session that helps Directors and Trustees get to grips with the EOT."
"Incredibly helpful at every stage of the EO journey, equipping us all with the important tools in promoting EO."
"A very well organised, fun event in a lovely location. Great opportunity to speak to other companies in similar situation and hear of their own individual experiences."
"Ownership Associates gave me a better understanding of the roles in an EO business."
"A really interesting and stimulating event which has given me a great insight into getting EO to work properly in an EO company."
"very valuable and informative, I think all employees should attend at some point"
ASK THE EXPERTS
As you move through our website you will be able to access our special Ask The Experts Forum where you will be able to get obligation-free advice pertinent to your particular circumstance.
LET’S MAKE THIS HAPPEN
You can get things started. It’s all about your vision, your options, your tax benefits, discovering what’s involved in the process and fleshing it out to ensure you achieve what you want.