#USA #Chicago #Employee Ownership #KKR #CroweONE

Crowe Launches Employee-Centric Ownership Initiative

Crowe, a prominent public accounting and consulting firm, has recently unveiled a groundbreaking shared ownership program known as CroweONE, aimed at promoting a culture of engagement and accountability across the organization. Uniquely designed for all eligible employees, CroweONE allows everyone within the firm to have a tangible stake in the company's ongoing growth and future value creation.

The inception of CroweONE is a result of strategic collaboration with KKR, a leading global investment firm, following KKR's equity investment in Crowe earlier this year. This partnership not only signifies an investment in the firm but also highlights a shared commitment to the development of Crowe's workforce, marking a significant milestone in both organizations' strategic alliance.

One of the most compelling features of CroweONE is its extensive inclusivity. Unlike traditional ownership programs that often limit participation to a select group of senior executives, CroweONE invites every employee to become a stakeholder—fostering a culture of shared ownership across the entire firm. This initiative allows employees to gain significant insight into the business operations while encouraging them to take a more active role in shaping the company's trajectory.

According to Steven Strammello, the CEO of Crowe, the essence of CroweONE aligns with the firm's long-standing principles of stewardship and engagement that have thrived over its 80-year history. He emphasized that this program symbolizes an empowerment initiative, enabling employees to participate more meaningfully in the firm's success and reinforcing the importance of collaboration and trust with clients. Additionally, CroweONE promises to enrich client relationships and bolster the delivery of high-quality outcomes.

The shared ownership program does not require any upfront investment from employees, which paves the way for additional financial benefits alongside their current compensation and bonuses. Not only does CroweONE enhance the immediate employee experience, but it also creates pathways for future hires, ensuring that the program remains a dynamic and inclusive component of Crowe's corporate culture.

Crowe's commitment to its human capital is further evident through a suite of initiatives, such as the Forward Together Awards—a program designed to recognize individual contributions to the company's future success. Furthermore, the company is actively working on establishing an employee assistance fund for those facing unforeseen financial hardships, thereby reinforcing its dedication to employee welfare.

Chris Harrington, a partner at KKR, stated that broad-based ownership ultimately gives employees a chance to directly share in the rewards of the value they contribute to the firm. In doing so, it not just builds on existing collaborative culture, but also strengthens the connection between employees, clients, and long-term growth strategies.

Crowe operates through a unique practice structure with Crowe LLP focusing on audit and attest services, while Crowe Advisory LLC specializes in tax, advisory, consulting, and non-attest services. The global network of Crowe consists of over 300 independent accounting and advisory firms operating in more than 150 countries, solidifying its standing as one of the largest accounting networks worldwide as of July 2026.

In summary, as Crowe moves into this next era with CroweONE, it does so with a clear vision of enhancing involvement at every level of the organization. The shared ownership program is more than a financial opportunity; it is a cultural transformation designed to empower all employees while driving the firm's commitment to excellence in client service and stakeholder value.