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Employee Ownership Blog


Is an ESOP Right for You? Dallas, Texas–Speakers Announced!

Explore the Empowering Potential of ESOPs

We're thrilled to announce our highly anticipated 1.5-day seminar Is an ESOP Right for You? in Dallas, TX, from February 5-6, 2024. This event will provide entrepreneurs, business owners, and HR professionals with comprehensive insights into ESOP transaction structures, plan design, financing, and more in response to the expanding ESOP landscape.

Join us for an immersive exploration of key topics that will transform your understanding of ESOPs and unleash the potential of employee ownership within your organization. Explore the event sessions and meet our expert speakers who will guide us through this enlightening journey:

1. ESOP Transaction Structures & Assessing Feasibility

Speaker: Robert Massengill, Pilot Hill Advisors LLC

Bob has been an ESOP advisor and investment banker since 1995. He has completed all types of ESOP transactions, including initial ESOPs, second-stage ESOPs, and merging ESOP companies. He has advised on ESOP companies buying other companies as well as on buying down ESOPs in both leveraged and nonleveraged transactions.

3. Different Ages, Different Outcomes: Generational Considerations Business Owners Face when Evaluating an ESOP—Roundtable

Speaker: Matt Middendorp, ESOP Partners

Matt Middendorp is a seasoned professional and dedicated ESOP advocate with a rich background in banking and consulting. With multiple degrees, he began his career at an ESOP-owned company during college, fostering a passion for the unique ESOP culture. Matt now dedicates his expertise to educating business owners on selecting and managing ESOPs. A frequent industry speaker and guest contributor, he brings depth to the conversation.

4. ESOP Plan Design & Operations

Speaker: Chuck Bachman, Menke

Chuck specializes in the design and installation of ESOPs and the structuring of ESOP transactions. He has 30 years of experience and has been involved in hundreds of ESOP transactions.

5. Determining Stock Value

Speaker: Laurie-Leigh White, BVA Group

Laurie-Leigh White, CPA/ABV, ASA, is a partner at BVA Group and is responsible for executing various valuation and litigation engagements. Specifically, Ms. White specializes in valuing companies, partnerships, intangible assets, complex securities for financial reporting and tax purposes, and ESOPs.

6. Financing an ESOP

Speaker: Mark B. Russell, SES ESOP Strategies

Mark is head of the finance group at SES ESOP Strategies. He works with business owners to evaluate their business and personal situations and assist in preparing for succession or exit from their businesses by analyzing alternatives, including management buyouts, ESOPs, recapitalizations, and minority or majority sales of the business.

7. Fiduciary Responsibilities in an ESOP-Owned Company

Speaker: Christine Adee, OwnersEdge, Inc.

As CEO of OwnersEdge, a 100% employee-owned ESOP holding company with five operating companies, Chris is responsible for managing the fiduciary complexities of the ESOP, along with providing guidance on the profitability and growth trajectory for each of the operating companies and evaluating and directing risk management.

8. How We Built Our Unique ESOP and Engaged Employees Along the Way

Speaker: Sheryl Lewis, ROI Communication, Inc.

Sheryl led the development of a customized ESOP aligned with the company’s culture. In 22 years at ROI, she has engaged clients in strategy development, change management, and leadership alignment/organizational design.

9. Investing in the 1042 Rollover

Speaker: Andrew J. O'Daniel, Morgan Stanley Private Wealth Management

Andrew has nearly 30 years of experience in assisting clients in managing complexity associated with advanced planning, typically arising from exit and succession processes in the middle market. His national team is dedicated to amplifying public awareness of the advantages of ESOPs, especially in use with legacy and family planning.

10. Case Study: Why Torch Implemented an ESOP 20 Years Ago—Our Journey to 100%

Speaker: Clay Hagan, Torch Technologies, Inc.

Clay Hagan currently serves as senior VP of corporate development for Torch Technologies, Inc. Clay joined Torch as a senior engineer in December 2003. Clay served as the AMCOM EXPRESS program manager from March 2008 through June 2014, progressing from senior manager to vice president.

Why Attend the Seminar

  • Engage in insightful discussions with accomplished professionals with a proven ESOP track record.
  • Pose your questions, express concerns, and receive personalized advice from industry experts.
  • Network with peers with similar interests and establish connections within the ESOP community.
  • Acquire practical knowledge to empower your ESOP transaction team, enabling them to make well-informed decisions.

Conclusion

Seize the extraordinary chance to glean insights from industry leaders and ESOP experts, unraveling the possibilities of employee ownership within your organization. Secure your spot by registering today and embark on a journey to cultivate a stronger, more engaged, and future-ready workforce through the transformative power of ESOPs!

Disclaimer: Event details and speaker lineup are subject to change.