We are excited to present our highly anticipated 1.5-day seminar Is an ESOP Right for You? in New Orleans from October 24–25, 2023. As the ESOP landscape grows, this event aims to equip entrepreneurs, business owners, and HR professionals with in-depth knowledge on ESOP transaction structures, plan design, financing, and more.

Join us as we delve into the core topics that will revolutionize your understanding of employee stock ownership plans and unlock the potential of employee ownership within your organization. See below for the event sessions, as well as the expert speakers who will lead us on this enlightening journey:

1. ESOP Transaction Structures

Speaker: Matthew Dennison, Chartwell Financial Advisors

Understanding the various ESOP transaction structures is crucial when considering employee ownership. In this session, our esteemed speaker will shed light on the different ESOP models, their benefits, and how to determine which structure best aligns with your company's goals.

2. Assessing ESOP Feasibility

Speaker: Sean-Tamba Matthew, SES ESOP Strategies

Before venturing into ESOP implementation, assessing its feasibility for your organization is vital. Our expert will walk you through the essential steps in determining whether an ESOP is the right fit, considering your company's financial standing, workforce culture, and long-term vision.

3. Plan Design & Operation

Speaker: Pete Schuler, Blue Ridge ESOP Associates

Crafting an effective ESOP plan design is key to its success. This session will guide you through the intricacies of developing a comprehensive plan that fosters employee engagement, aligns with your corporate values, and encourages long-term commitment to the company's success.

4. Determining Stock Value

Speaker: To Be Announced

Understanding how to accurately value the company's stock is paramount in an ESOP. Our seasoned speaker will demystify the valuation process, discuss various methodologies, and provide insights into compliance with regulatory requirements.

5. Financing an ESOP

Speaker: Amanda Sigg, BMO

ESOPs require financial arrangements that suit your business's unique circumstances. In this session, our expert will explore different financing options available to implement an ESOP successfully, ensuring a smooth transition of ownership.

6. Lunch with Experts: Timely Considerations for the ESOP Transaction Team

Speaker: Allison Wilkerson, McDermott Will & Emery

As part of our commitment to providing you with comprehensive insights and valuable networking opportunities, we are delighted to announce a special "Lunch with Experts" session during our ESOP Feasibility Seminar. This informal yet highly informative gathering will focus on "Timely Considerations for the ESOP Transaction Team."

7. Fiduciary Issues

Speaker: Patrick DeCreane, GreatBanc Trust Company

Explore the fiduciary responsibilities that come with ESOPs. Our speaker will provide a comprehensive overview of the fiduciary roles, duties, and potential challenges, offering guidance on mitigating risks while protecting the company's and its employees' interests.

8. Incentive Compensation for ESOP Companies

Speaker: David Whaley, Thompson Hine

Discover innovative incentive compensation strategies that complement ESOP structures. This session will focus on aligning employee rewards with the company's performance, fostering a sense of shared success, and driving organizational growth.

9. Investing in the 1042 Rollover

Speaker: Nick Frania, UBS

The 1042 rollover allows business owners to defer capital gains tax on stock sale to an ESOP. Our expert will dive into the intricacies of this tax-saving strategy and outline its potential benefits for business owners and the ESOP.

10. Ownership Communication and Culture: Recent Research

Speaker: Tim Garbinsky, NCEO

Communication and culture play vital roles in the success of an ESOP. Tim will explore recent research and case studies that highlight the significance of fostering an ownership culture and cultivating effective communication within the organization.

Seminar Topics

1. Regulatory Updates and Compliance: Stay up to date with the latest regulatory changes that could impact your ESOP transaction. Our experts will provide insights into compliance requirements, potential pitfalls, and best practices to ensure a smooth and legally sound transition.

2. Employee Engagement and Communication Strategies: Learn practical strategies to communicate the ESOP plan to your employees and foster a sense of ownership among them. Our experts will share successful communication techniques that drive engagement and build a positive employee-owner culture.

3. Handling Potential Challenges: Discover how to proactively address and overcome challenges that may arise during the ESOP implementation process. Our experts will discuss common hurdles and practical problem-solving approaches, preparing your team for any obstacles.

4. Financial and Tax Considerations: Develop a deeper understanding of the financial implications of an ESOP transaction. Our experts will discuss tax benefits, financial planning, and strategies for optimizing the transaction's economic outcomes.

5. Legal and Fiduciary Responsibilities: Gain insights into an ESOP transaction's legal and fiduciary responsibilities. Our experts will offer guidance on managing fiduciary duties and protecting the interests of all parties involved.

Why Attend the Seminar

• To engage in meaningful conversations with seasoned professionals who have a proven track record in the ESOP domain.
• To pose your questions, share your concerns, and receive personalized advice from industry experts.
• To network with like-minded peers and build connections within the ESOP community.
• To gain practical knowledge to empower your ESOP transaction team to make informed decisions.

Conclusion

Don't miss this exceptional opportunity to learn from industry leaders and experts on ESOP feasibility and unleash the potential of employee ownership within your organization. Register today and embark on a journey towards building a more robust, engaged, and future-ready workforce through ESOPs!

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