The Industry Club, a recruiter for the marketing and media sector, has transitioned to a 100% employee-owned business in order to equitably benefit all staff now and in the future.
The team of 10 will now co-own the organisation through an employee ownership trust and Melissa Smith, managing director and founder, will remain in the business and be part of the team until 2030.
The aim of the employee ownership trust was to give the team the opportunity to have a more significant share in the business and its future, as well as preserving and protecting itsculture and ensuring its experience continues to benefit clients and the industry. It was also a vote of confidence in a team that contributed to its success over the years.
Smith said: “We have a very strong ethos that has evolved over a 13-year period and has absolutely contributed to the success of the business so far. I’ve seen first-hand the transformational impact employee ownership has on performance and the economy. It’s not just an alternative business model; it’s a vehicle for unleashing employees’ potential and driving innovation. And, while I’m still in the business, I’ll continue to champion and fully support them as they grow into the roles I know they’re capable of.”
Annie Wigley, finance and business operations consultant and employee representative on the trust board, added: “My role is to make sure everyone’s voice gets heard by having both team and one-to-one conversations with everyone. Getting back to basics and reminding everyone of our values has been crucial to give everyone a solid framework for pitching their ideas and suggestions to shape our business and its future.
“We’ve always been open with sharing how things operate, but the real game-changer is giving everyone a platform to really influence the long-term vision. More than ever all suggestions and opinions are valued and there’s definitely a new energy and excitement in the air that we’re all in this together and accountable.”
