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Welcome to the Alternative Exit
Today, we’re joined by James de le Vingne, a passionate advocate for employee ownership and the Chief Executive of the Employee Ownership Association (EOA).
James has been at the forefront of the movement to promote employee-owned businesses, helping hundreds of companies transition to this innovative model.
He’s a key voice in the growing UK movement for employee ownership, which is helping businesses not only survive but thrive by putting ownership into the hands of their workers.
In this episode, we’ll explore James' journey, the growth of employee ownership in the UK, and why more businesses are making this transformative shift."
James, welcome to the Alternative Exit!
Early Journey and Role at EOA:
The UK has seen a surge in employee-owned businesses, especially since 2020. What do you think has driven this growth, and why is it particularly appealing to SMEs? SUpportive legislation recently, since 2014 What initially drew you to the employee ownership movement, and how has your role at the EOA shaped your perspective on business ownership? Came from teh Coop movement Shared ownership, giving people a stake Comparison of the Co-op v EOT Worker Co-Op. Fully democratic - Similar outcomes EOT & Direct Share > traditional business Ensure people ar getting te Systematically bring employees early. Explaining
Employee Ownership in the UK:
You’ve described a mental shift that happens when employees become owners. Can you share some examples of how this ownership mindset has transformed businesses you've worked with? (James can highlight specific cases of businesses that benefited from this shift, offering practical examples.) Low morale > “don’t walk by” Broader Impact and Future Outlook:
Since becoming CEO of the EOA, what key changes have you seen in the landscape of employee-owned businesses in the UK? (Encourages discussion on the rapid growth of employee-owned businesses, especially the impact of government support and policy changes.) Introduced policy within the team launched a proudly employee owned badge have an impact internationally Financially free, cleared the debt Codify and allocate what that person was doing Not culturally great, EO flips it on its head Elected representative on the board Great culture, locks it in Your recent post from the Labour Party conference mentioned that you are experiencing a lot of support from parliament. What role is the government playing in supporting EO across the UK What other support would you like to see from them? Help them align to the new mission In your view, what are the biggest misconceptions about employee ownership, and how can businesses overcome them? (An opportunity for him to address common concerns or misunderstandings about the employee ownership model.) Looking ahead, how do you see employee ownership evolving in the UK? What role do you think it will play in the future of business? (A forward-looking question that taps into his vision for the future.) Reflections and Personal Insights:
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your work with the EOA, and what do you hope to achieve moving forward? (A reflective question that encourages James to share personal milestones and his hopes for the movement.) factory floors and employee owners, amplify their voice 2;000 > 10,000 in the coming parliamentary term. 5 years Fast round
Fast round of questions. I ask you a 3 questions and you offer a quick response. Does that sound ok?
Who is the leader you most admire in EO? Gaham Nuttal, CLeanTEx busines leaders, Panen What is your favourite resource on employee ownership. our hub What would you say to an business owner sitting on the fence re: employee ownership. WHen you have met one employee ownershi
Thank you.
Thank you so much for your time and sharing your thoughts with us today.
Where can people follow you if they would like to learn more?
EOA
LI
