After a decade of employee ownership, we’re excited to announce our official transition to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) model. This evolution builds on foundations we laid in 2014, when we became one of the first UK architectural practices to embrace employee ownership.
How the EOT model works
The EOT model places all company shares in a trust held for every employee, both current and future. After consulting with advisor Baxendale Employee Ownership and our employees, the advantages became clear: fewer barriers to leadership progression, a clearer framework for employees to hold directors accountable, better opportunities for strategic investment, and an equitable share of rewards for those who contribute to our success.
“This transition is a natural complement to our B Corp status and progresses our commitment to creating a practice where everyone has a genuine stake in our collective success. It formalises what we’ve always believed, that our people should share in the rewards they help create.” – Pierre Wassenaar, Chair
The move to an EOT gives our employees a stronger voice in how we run the practice and ensures we remain independently owned with the freedom to make decisions driven by our values rather than external shareholder pressures.
A new governance structure
A key part of this transition has been establishing an EOT Trustee Board, composed of:
- Independent Chair: Emily Alston, Baxendale Employee Ownership
- Stride Treglown Board Directors: Graham Stephens and Rob Sargent
- Employee Forum Chair: Paul Mayor
- Employee Representative: Rebecca Draper
The Trustees’ role is to safeguard the interests of all employees as beneficiaries of the Trust. They ensure we operate according to our values and provide governance oversight, while the practice’s day-to-day management remains with the leadership team.
“This is a monumental moment for Stride Treglown. We would like to thank the board, its advisors, and existing shareholders for their collaborative efforts in securing an exciting future for us all.” – Paul Mayor, Employee Forum Chair and EOT Trustee
What this means for our clients and partners
This change represents a natural evolution that reinforces the quality and continuity we’ve always been known for. The EOT provides additional assurance that Stride Treglown will remain independent and true to its values for the long term.
If you’re considering a similar path for your own business, get in touch with our Managing Director, Darren Wilkins who would be delighted to share more. To learn more about how employee ownership has shaped our values, culture and work, download our latest Impact Report.
