Employee ownership
Employee ownership is a relatively new approach to running a business, it is a way that legacies can continue and employees are rewarded for their commitment and hard work. Stephen Jones, Founder, wanted this for Focus and its valued employees and so in July 2019 we became employee owned. Other employee-owned businesses include Riverford Organic, 3663, AG Parfett & Sons Ltd, Cambridge Weight Watchers, John Lewis amongst many others.
The ethos of an employee-owned business is to create a sustainable future in an engaged and productive environment, where employees have control and contribute to the strategy and processes of the business. By sharing information and holding regular meetings we use the knowledge and experience of the whole team to make informed decisions for the good of the business.
Focus is a member of the Employee Ownership Association, where we can learn from, network, and connect with other employee-owned companies.
Employee ownership is seen in many guises, we choose to have a Trust who hold the shares of the business for the employees, and whom the management team report into. Each and every one of our employees have a significant and meaningful stake in the company and we all have a say in how the business is run and everyone shares in its financial successes.
The Trust is made up of the Founder, an Independent Trustee, and an Employee Trustee. The appointment of the Employee Trustee was by employee vote, with Rachel Parkin currently holding the position.
David Wilson
Independent Trustee
