#United States #Dallas #Employee Ownership #Ownership Works #StoneTree

Expanding Opportunities for Employees: A New Era of Ownership

In a groundbreaking move, StoneTree Investment Partners has announced a strategic collaboration with Ownership Works, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting employee ownership across various business sectors. This alliance aims to introduce employee ownership models in the lower middle market industrial businesses, allowing employees to benefit directly from the wealth they help create.

The Vision Behind the Partnership

StoneTree Investment Partners, renowned for its focus on transforming industrial businesses, is committed to enhancing employee engagement and retention through innovative ownership programs. As Joel Stanwood, a partner at StoneTree, stated, "Partnering with Ownership Works reflects our deep belief in the transformative power of broad-based ownership." This partnership marks a significant shift towards empowering employees to act like owners, fostering a culture of shared prosperity within partner companies.

The initiative stresses not only the importance of employee engagement but also long-term business performance. By implementing these ownership programs, StoneTree aims to help employees gain a sense of belonging and security in their work environment, thereby improving their financial wellbeing.

The Role of Ownership Works

Ownership Works plays a crucial role in this initiative, providing expertise in launching shared ownership models that enable all employees within partner companies to participate in the business's success. Anna-Lisa Miller, the Executive Director of Ownership Works, emphasized the alignment of their mission with StoneTree's core values. "Together, we are showing that broad-based employee ownership is a powerful force for building better businesses and creating lasting impact for workers, families, and communities," she remarked.

Benefits of Employee Ownership

One of the primary goals of this partnership is to demonstrate the economic benefits that come from employee ownership. Research indicates that companies with employee ownership models often see higher productivity, increased profitability, and improved employee morale. By sharing in the success of the company, employees are more likely to be motivated and committed to their work, leading to reduced turnover and fostering a healthier workplace culture.

This initiative also serves as a blueprint for others in the private equity industry considering similar paths. As Chris Dupré, another partner at StoneTree, noted, investing in people has always been fundamental to their ethos. "Our work with Ownership Works will help us embed ownership culture into our Partner Companies, elevate outcomes for employees, and expand the adoption of employee ownership across the private equity industry," he stated.

The Future of Workplace Economics

The collaboration signals a potential shift in workplace economics, emphasizing the importance of employee engagement as a cornerstone of corporate success. By allowing employees at all levels to reap the rewards of their labor, businesses can not only ensure their own longevity but also contribute positively to the communities in which they operate.

With StoneTree's commitment of approximately $200 million in assets under management towards this initiative and the solid backing of Ownership Works, both organizations are paving the way for a more inclusive economy.

By focusing on transforming employee roles from mere workers to owners, they are redefining what it means to be part of a company in today's market.

In conclusion, the partnership between StoneTree Investment Partners and Ownership Works is set to revolutionize the traditional workplace dynamics, offering empowerment, engagement, and economic inclusion for all employees. This mutual commitment to enhancing workplace conditions can serve as a model for others, sparking a broader movement toward shared ownership in a variety of sectors.