When I first came to the United States from Scotland, I wasn’t fully familiar with the idea of employee ownership. Now, having spent the last 3 years at KJT, I see how transformative this model can be. Working within an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) has shifted how I view work culture, collaboration, and personal investment in KJT’s future.
KJT is young in its ESOP journey. While we are constantly learning and evolving, the benefits of employee ownership are evident every day, especially in how employee owners contribute more fully and think long-term. Recently, we established a new, improved Employee Ownership Committee to help drive the ESOP culture and mentality across the KJT. We also welcomed many new employee-owners that have reminded us of our core values and reconnected us to the shared ownership principles that drive us forward. It’s been an exciting time, filled with opportunities to reinforce our purpose and foster an even stronger sense of community within KJT.
Here’s why working in an ESOP company is inspiring:
1. Empowerment through ownership
One of the most powerful aspects of an ESOP is that it gives every employee a personal stake in KJT’s success. Each of us isn’t just an employee – we’re an owner. This shift in mindset creates an environment where we’re motivated to contribute to the company’s growth. We’re driven not just by our individual roles but by a collective ambition, knowing that the success of our colleagues and KJT as a whole benefits each of us. This sense of ownership encourages us to bring our best selves, to bring innovative ideas to the table, to look out for one another, and to hold ourselves accountable in ways that go beyond a traditional work environment.
2. Strengthens the bond among new and established team members
With our recent influx of new talent, it’s been inspiring to see how quickly everyone has embraced the ethos of employee ownership. As the co-chair of our new Employee Ownership Committee, I believe it’s vitally important to help guide new employee-owners during their first steps into the exciting world of ESOP. New team members also bring fresh perspectives and experiences, while more seasoned employees share insights and help reinforce the foundation of our ESOP culture.
3. ESOPs are more than just financial incentives
Of course, an ESOP offers tangible financial benefits, but its value runs deeper. It fosters a company culture based in inclusivity, respect, and shared success. In an ESOP, individual goals align with organizational goals. This unity helps create a resilient, collaborative work environment – one where everyone is focused on building something that benefits us all.
In employee ownership, every effort feels meaningful, and every decision has weight. From taking a moment out of your day to listen and give advice to a colleague to getting a deliverable out the door early to pull forward revenue recognition. It’s an approach that can drive a company toward long-term stability while also giving employees a sense of purpose and pride. For anyone looking to join an ESOP – or KJT specifically – know that the experience is rewarding not only because of the financial potential but because of the unique culture it creates – one that values each person’s input and treats every employee as a co-builder of the company’s future.
Looking ahead together
As our young ESOP continues to mature, I’m excited about the journey ahead. Employee ownership has the potential to foster an environment of trust, shared responsibility, and a commitment to growth – both personally and professionally. For companies considering an ESOP structure, know that this model can transform your culture, attract talent, and create a dynamic sense of purpose. At KJT, being part of an ESOP isn’t just about work; it’s about building a shared legacy, creating something lasting, and celebrating our success together.
Here’s to KJT’s future – one that we all own, together.
Author
Darren Reid, MA (Hons), MRes
Research, Associate VP
With over a decade of research experience, Darren seamlessly blends qualitative and qualitative expertise to address complex business challenges. He continuously emphasizes building strong relationships, delivering actionable insights and strategies that drive success for our clients.
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