Financial Management Considerations for ESOPs

Let’s face it, ESOPs aren’t even a blip on the radar in most financial literature. Financial management textbooks focus on public companies and private equity models, leaving ESOP-owned businesses in uncharted territory. In this session, we’ll explore how to adapt traditional corporate finance best practices to the unique realities of ESOP ownership. Whether you're newly employee-owned or looking to optimize your mature plan, this presentation will help you fine-tune your financial strategy to get the most out of your ESOP.

Aligning financial strategy with corporate purpose
Strategic and financial planning
Cash, debt, and working capital management
Repurchase obligation planning and long-term sustainability
Making smart investment and M&A decisions under employee ownership

Learning Objectives:

1) Understand how employee ownership changes financial priorities and learn how to align capital decisions with your company’s mission, values, and ESOP goals.
2) Identify practical approaches to financial planning, capital allocation, and repurchase obligation management that balance performance with long-term sustainability.
3) Evaluate investment and M&A opportunities to drive value for employee owners.