Exploring the future of business at the Employee Ownership Association’s (EOA) annual conference

By Lorna Martin, Practice Manager and Employee Trustee, Postlethwaite Solicitors

The Employee Ownership Association (EOA) Conference last week was an inspiring event filled with learning, networking, and plenty of food for thought. From captivating speakers to enlightening discussions on succession planning and artificial intelligence, the conference was a valuable opportunity to reflect on the future of employee ownership and the role it plays in shaping better businesses.

Javier Bajer: A Fresh Look at Organisational Culture

A highlight of the conference was Javier Bajer’s engaging and entertaining session on organisational culture and behaviour. His presentation challenged many preconceptions and encouraged us to think differently about how we cultivate and sustain a positive workplace culture. The insights he shared were thought-provoking and have inspired me to consider how we can continue to embed employee-ownership values into our firm’s culture.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Business Evolution

It was fascinating to learn how other employee-owned firms are embracing artificial intelligence (AI). The practical applications discussed ranged from improving operational efficiency to enhancing employee engagement. These examples provided plenty of inspiration, and I’m excited to explore how we might apply similar ideas at Postlethwaite Solicitors.

Succession Planning: Stories and Insights

Lessons from Aber Instruments and Grierson Dickens
Succession planning is a crucial element of employee ownership, and the conference provided a wealth of insights on this topic. Hearing directly from Aber Instruments and Grierson Dickens about their transitions offered practical takeaways and a deeper appreciation of the planning and foresight needed to navigate this process effectively.

Challenges and Opportunities with the 1:1 Diet CEO
Adding another perspective, the CEO of the 1:1 Diet shared the challenges encountered during their succession journey. Their story underscored the importance of adaptability, bravery and clear communication during such transformative periods, leaving me with valuable lessons to apply in my own role.

Building Connections and Celebrating Success

The social side of the conference was equally fantastic. The dinner was a particular highlight, featuring wonderful food, wine, and an evening of dancing. The night enabled us to build stronger relationships with fellow attendees and celebrate the shared achievements of the employee ownership community.

Closing Reflections and a Vision for the Future

Encouraging Trends in Employee Ownership
The conference reaffirmed the momentum behind employee ownership, with James de la Vigne presenting data showing the growing number of employee-owned businesses. This positive trajectory highlights the increasing appeal of this model for companies looking to secure their future while prioritising employee engagement.

Paramo’s Inspirational Journey
The closing keynote from Paramo (Nikwax, a past client of ours) was deeply moving. Their story of resilience and commitment to fostering a positive work environment left a lasting impact. It highlighted the profound influence of strong leadership and company culture on a business’s success, reinforcing the power of transformation when people are at the heart of a business.

Looking Ahead

Attending the EOA Conference was a privilege, and it left me with plenty to reflect on and act upon. From integrating AI innovations to deepening our focus on succession planning, the insights gained will undoubtedly influence our approach as we support businesses on their employee ownership journey.

I look forward to seeing how these ideas evolve within Postlethwaite Solicitors and beyond, and I am excited about the continued growth of employee ownership in the UK.

Lorna Martin is the Practice Manager and an Employee Trustee at Postlethwaite Solicitors, supporting the firm’s mission to help businesses transition to employee ownership. With over 20 years of expertise, Postlethwaite Solicitors has completed more than 180 employee ownership transitions.