Panel discussion – Employee ownership trust: An exit strategy that preserves your legacy – real life lessons

Start date: September 16, 2026 8:30 am breakfast and networking – Panel: 9:00 am to 10:30 am

Join us for the Moore Kingston Smith EOT panel discussion: “Employee ownership: The exit strategy that preserves your legacy – real life lessons”, featuring leaders from Equal Experts and DBD, who will share their experiences of transitioning to and operating under an employee ownership business model with an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).

Despite some recent tax changes, employee ownership continues to gain momentum across the UK as many business owners view it as an attractive exit route that can preserve legacy, enhance employee engagement and support long-term growth.

Our panel discussion will give you valuable first-hand insights into the opportunities, challenges and practical considerations in becoming and operating as an employee-owned business.

Panellists:

• Sam McGregor, Chief Operating Officer of Equal Experts, a global IT consultancy of over 4,000 people across the world driving transformational business outcomes through technology.
• Sam Firth-Bernard, Chairman of DBD Distribution, the UK’s leader in contract appliance supplier and installer to the UK housebuilders and construction industry.

The panel will be chaired by Andrew Williamson, Partner at Moore Kingston Smith.

In the session, you will explore:

• Why choose employee ownership and the EOT route?
• Lessons learned throughout the transition process
• The impact of employee ownership on culture, growth and long-term success
• Key considerations for business owners thinking of exiting to an EOT
• Common challenges after transition to an EOT and how to overcome them
• Ensuring you have an effective EOT and that trustees play an effective role

Who should attend:

• Business owners and board members exploring succession options and considering an EOT as part of their long-term strategy.
• EOT trustees seeking practical insights into the challenges and opportunities of employee ownership.

Timings:

8.30 am – Reception, breakfast, networking

9.00 am to 10.00 am – Panel discussion

10.00 am to 10.30 am – Q&A