Case Study: Peak Performance Trust (PPT) – A Success Story in Employee Ownership

The Peak Performance Trust (PPT) serves as a great example of successful employee ownership within a professional services business. The PPT, an Employee Share Ownership Plan (ESOP), was designed to attract, reward, retain, and motivate employees contributing to the success of the business.

Employee Retention

The introduction of the PPT significantly improved employee retention rates. Employees felt more valued and invested in the company’s success, leading to a decrease in turnover. The sense of ownership fostered a culture where employees were more committed to the company’s long-term goals.

Improved Performance

The PPT also led to enhanced performance across the company. Employees, now as part-owners, were more proactive in identifying areas for improvement and innovation. This collective effort resulted in the development of competitive products and processes, giving the company a competitive edge in the market.

Succession Outcomes

Succession planning became more streamlined with the PPT in place. The ESOP provided a clear pathway for leadership and ownership transitions, ensuring continuity and stability. This was particularly beneficial for the company’s long-term sustainability and growth.

The PPT’s success story highlights the transformative impact of employee ownership on retention, performance, and succession outcomes within a professional services business. It stands as a testament to the power of aligning employees’ lifestyle and financial goals with business objectives, creating a cohesive and committed team working towards shared success. The case study also highlights the plan’s role in attracting, rewarding, retaining, and motivating employees contributing to the business’s success.

Dr Craig West

Founder & Chairman | Succession Plus

Dr Craig West is a strategic accountant who has over 20 years of experience advising business owners.

With a background as an accountant in practice and two master’s degrees, Craig formed a strong view that the majority of business owners (and often their advisers) were unprepared and unaware of the steps required to prepare for exit. He then designed and documented a unique 21-Step Business Succession and Exit Planning process to assist owners and their advisers in navigating this process.

Craig now acts as a strategic business and financial mentor for mid-market business owners. Craig has written four critically acclaimed books educating business owners on employee incentives, succession planning, asset protection, and exit strategies. Additionally, he has completed doctoral research on Employee Share Ownership Plans (ESOPs) for succession.

Craig is a Member of the Forbes Business Council where he leverages his extensive experience to contribute valuable insights on helping business leaders navigate the complexities of growing and exiting their businesses.

In April 2024, the Exit Planning Institute admitted Craig to the International Exit Planning Circle of Excellence.